The NBA has implemented a new statistical rule that rewards players for attempting ultra-long shots at the end of quarters, a change that directly benefits those willing to take low-percentage heaves. The modification means shots taken from beyond 36 feet in the final three seconds of the first three quarters will no longer count against a player’s individual shooting percentage. This adjustment addresses longtime criticism that some players avoid these attempts to protect their stats.

Golden State Warriors star Steph Curry, known for his willingness to attempt these difficult shots, reacted to the new rule with his characteristic blend of humor and insight. He admitted, “I used to be like the grumpy old guy sitting on the porch yelling at people who didn’t take that shot because they were afraid of what it does to their shooting percentage.” Curry has attempted 110 career heaves, making six of these extremely long-distance attempts throughout his career.

The rule change specifically applies to shots taken from at least 36 feet away during the final three seconds of the first three quarters. When asked about the specific parameters, Curry displayed some confusion about the details, stating, “I still don’t know what the actual rule is. Like where is …?” After learning the specifics, he concluded, “That’s too much to think about. Just play basketball.” He downplayed the statistical impact, noting, “I couldn’t care less. I get what 10 extra field goals maybe throughout a whole season. … Much ado about nothing.”

According to data from SportRadar, players made approximately 4% of their qualifying heaves last season. Denver’s Nikola Jokic led the league with 22 heave attempts, successfully making two of them. The recent rule change could particularly benefit players like Jokic and Stephen Curry, who frequently attempt these shots without worrying about their shooting percentages. Historically, players such as Kobe Bryant, Carmelo Anthony, and Vince Carter were also known for taking a high number of heaves despite their low success rates.

On the other hand, many of the league’s biggest stars have been more hesitant to attempt heaves. For instance, James Harden has made only 18 heave attempts in his 16 NBA seasons. Russell Westbrook has logged just 16 heaves over 17 seasons. Kevin Durant attempted only nine heaves in 17 seasons, including just one during each of the two seasons he led the league in field goal attempts. Kyrie Irving has made 17 heave attempts in 14 seasons. Dirk Nowitzki, who ranks eighth all-time in field goal attempts, took only 22 heaves across 21 seasons. LeBron James attempted 31 heaves in his first eight seasons but has only made six attempts in the 14 seasons since he joined the Miami Heat.

Boston Celtics guard Payton Pritchard has become another player known for fearlessly launching these deep shots. He drilled a couple of half-court buzzer beaters against the Dallas Mavericks during the 2024 NBA Finals. “I live for those moments, clock winding down and six seconds left, get to a spot and raise [up for the jumper],” Pritchard said about one of his deep buzzer beaters. “I kind of black out in those moments and just let it fly. And obviously, it works out a lot of the time. …It’s a gut punch when you do hit them. The momentum swings are crazy,” he added.​

The new rule should encourage more players to start attempting these shots since there’s no statistical downside anymore. But for Curry, who’s been doing it all along, it’s really just about playing the game the right way rather than worrying about numbers that barely move the needle on his career averages anyway.

This news comes at a time when the Golden State Warriors are struggling in financial aspects, about which we can discuss further.

Stephen Curry’s family issues, followed by the Warriors’ financial trouble

The Golden State Warriors’ ongoing financial challenges have created an uncomfortable situation for Stephen Curry. The organization recently made a roster move that directly impacts Curry’s family, highlighting the difficult decisions teams face under the NBA’s salary cap rules. This development comes just days before the Warriors begin their regular season campaign.

The Golden State Warriors have waived guard Seth Curry, the younger brother of Stephen Curry, as part of a strategic financial maneuver. NBA insider Chris Haynes confirmed the move, stating simply, “Golden State Warriors have waived guard Seth Curry.” The decision temporarily ends the possibility of the Curry brothers playing together for the Warriors after Seth signed with the team on October 1st. The team also released rookie LJ Cryer, reducing their roster to 17 players.

This decision primarily revolves around managing the salary cap rather than basketball performance. According to team sources, the Warriors plan to re-sign Seth Curry next month once they achieve sufficient financial flexibility under league rules. The 35-year-old guard did not participate in any preseason games for Golden State after joining the team. Last season, he played for the Charlotte Hornets, averaging 6.5 points per game and shooting 45.6% from three-point range.

The timing of the announcement initially confused fans, as some briefly misunderstood which Curry brother was involved. This temporary separation suggests that the Warriors are committed to reuniting the Curry brothers once their financial situation permits. The organization continues to navigate luxury tax constraints while striving to build a competitive roster around Stephen Curry, who remains the face of the franchise.