As the Golden State Warriors face a standstill with their current team dynamics, a veteran San Francisco Chronicle columnist, Scott Ostler, has sparked a controversial debate by suggesting that the team consider trading Stephen Curry. Known for transforming the Warriors from NBA underdogs into a dominant dynasty, Curry’s potential trade has become a topic of “unpleasant but necessary discussion.”

Curry, who is 35 years old, has been instrumental in leading the Warriors to four NBA championships over his 15 seasons with the team. He has revolutionized the game of basketball with his unparalleled shooting ability, changing how the game is played at a fundamental level. Despite his age, Curry continues to perform at an elite level, averaging 26.4 points last season with a 40.8% success rate from the three-point line.

However, as the Warriors’ contention status wanes, Ostler suggests that moving Curry could provide the team with a fresh start. The idea hinges on two conditions: the looming prospect of a decline into mediocrity and Curry’s personal approval of a trade. Ostler argues that if another team offers a substantial return of draft picks and prospects for Curry, the Warriors should present the option to him, considering every decision the team has made in recent years has been with the intention of maximizing his “Curry Window.”

The discussion comes at a time when the team’s other stars, Draymond Green and Klay Thompson, are also at crossroads. Green, despite still being effective as a point-forward, may not justify his $100 million contract, and Thompson faces his own challenges, having struggled this season and eyeing a significant contract in the summer. The practicality of rebuilding around Curry, who is approaching the latter stages of his career, is in question, leading some to believe that perhaps a trade could be more dignified and strategic for all parties involved.

The potential breakup of the Warriors’ big three is bound to be an emotionally tough process for Curry, but as Ostler points out, it might be preferable to make proactive decisions rather than waiting until “the wheels fall off.”

As the Warriors and their fans ponder the future, the concept of trading Curry, though painful to consider, sparks a broader discussion on the best path forward for maintaining the team’s competitive edge in the NBA.