The NBA season is well underway and two of the league’s biggest stars, Stephen Curry and LeBron James, find themselves on smaller stages with lesser teams. Curry, who has been a key player for the Golden State Warriors for over a decade, is now leading a team with fewer established stars. Meanwhile, James, who has won multiple championships with the Miami Heat and the Cleveland Cavaliers, is now the face of a Los Angeles Lakers team that is still finding its footing.

Despite being on teams that are not considered championship contenders, Curry and James continue to show why they are among the greatest players of all time. Through the first few months of the season, both players have put up impressive stats and highlight-reel performances.

Curry, who has long been known for his sharpshooting from beyond the arc, has continued to dazzle fans with his long-range shooting. In a recent game against the Boston Celtics, Curry scored 47 points, including 11 three-pointers. He has also shown a willingness to take on more of a leadership role, helping to guide younger players on his team.

James, meanwhile, has been a force on both ends of the court. He is averaging over 25 points, 7 rebounds, and 7 assists per game, while also playing solid defense. In a recent game against the Milwaukee Bucks, James put up a triple-double, scoring 21 points, grabbing 11 rebounds, and dishing out 10 assists.

What is most impressive about both Curry and James, however, is not just their individual performances, but their ability to elevate the play of their teammates. Despite being on teams with less talent, both players have helped their squads compete with some of the league’s best.

For Curry, this has meant helping to develop young players like James Wiseman and Jordan Poole, who have shown flashes of brilliance this season. James, on the other hand, has helped to bring out the best in players like Anthony Davis and Russell Westbrook, who are still adjusting to playing alongside him.

While it remains to be seen how far their respective teams will go this season, Curry and James have once again shown that their greatness transcends their surroundings. Whether on a championship contender or a team that is still finding its way, these two players continue to shine as some of the brightest stars in the NBA.