Golden State Warriors: Top 10 NBA Draft picks in franchise history

1. Stephen Curry (PG) — No. 7 pick in 2009 NBA Draft

Career stats:  574 GP, 22.8 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 6.8 APG, 1.8 STL, 0.2 BLK, 3.2 TOV, 47.6 FG%, 43.8 3P%, 90.1 FT%

Where else could we cap off our countdown than with the greatest shooter in NBA history, Stephen Curry?

Over the last five seasons, the floor general has led the league in three-pointers attempted and made — converting an absurd 43.7 percent of his shots from beyond the arc. In that time span, he’s also been the NBA’s best in steals twice, free throw accuracy twice and points per game once.

Those accomplishments pale in comparison, though, to some of his other career accolades: Two-time MVP (2015, unanimous in 2016), two-time NBA champion and four All-NBA Team honors.

Furthermore, though many (sorta rightfully) believe Kevin Durant took away some of his shine this season — an opinion aided by the fact Durant won Finals MVP in 2017 — statistics show Curry is still the team’s most vital player.

For proof, check out this chart from NBA Math:

Need an overly simplistic explanation as to why that may be so? Well, here’s one:

Curry’s ability to knock down threes from anywhere on the court turns him into a magnet for defenders, which, in turn, opens up absurdly vacant lanes for his teammates.

Just watch how J.R. Smith chooses to cover the sharpshooter in transition instead of stopping the ball:

That may appear to be just a boneheaded mistake by Smith. However, in the postseason, Curry shot 66.7 percent from the left corner, so perhaps the Cavs 2-guard made the wise decision here?

Next: Top 10 Draft Picks in Boston Celtics History

That’s the exact kind of predicament Golden State can put you in. Durant, Green and Thompson are outstanding, sure, but the No. 7 pick from the 2009 NBA Draft is still the Warriors’ most irreplaceable player. And it’s not close.

-All statistics provided by Basketball Reference, unless otherwise noted.