Chris Mullin says Stephen Curry ‘already a legendary, historical player’

NEW YORK - Hall of Famers Chris Mullin and Mitch Richmond were on hand to see the Warriors on Tuesday practice at St. John’s University, where the two are looking to rebuild a college basketball program.

Mullin, one of the greatest shooters in Warriors history, raved about Stephen Curry after he and his St. John’s players got an up-close look at the reigning MVP.

“One hundred percent the best shooter all-time,” Mullin said of Curry. “No question. It’s beautiful. First of all, he’s the best shooter of all-time, but he’s much more than that. He commands so much attention. A lot of times, other guys are getting triple-doubles because of the attention he gets. He’ll get the hockey assists just because they’ll double him so early. It might be two passes later, but it really started with him.

“He’s already a legendary, historical player. He’s changing the way the game is being played and the way it’s being perceived.”

Praise poured in for Curry on the eve of the Warriors’ game at Washington on Wednesday when he hopes to bounce back from a season-worst 5-for-17 shooting performance in a win against the New York Knicks.

“That’s one of the things I really love about Steph, and if you want to make the comparison with Michael (Jordan), that was always the case with Michael - a bad shooting night never bothered him,” said Warriors coach Steve Kerr, who played with Jordan. “His demeanor didn’t change, his facial expression.

“Most guys go 0 for 5, and they’re like, ‘Oh my god, I may never make a shot again.’ That’s how Steph is. If he misses five in a row, 10 in a row, it doesn’t faze him, and it’s one of the things that makes him great.”

Said Mullin: “The last two or three seasons he’s put together are historical, and now this year he’s having a historic season. The numbers are staggering. I’ve seen some comparisons on TV, and they’re identical to Michael’s individual numbers.”

The Warriors will face a Wizards backcourt that includes All-Star point guard John Wall and Bradley Beal.

“They’ve shown why they’re the best shooters in the league, and their team, they’re able to knock down shots, but I think they’re a beatable team,” Wall said. “Every team is beatable in this league.

“You’ve just got to take things away from them, which is easier said than done when you get on the court.”

For Mullin and Richmond, it’s a joy to see the team they once starred on now with a 44-4 record following an NBA championship season.

“A lot of times me and Mitch watch, and we just look at each other,” Mullin said. “We’re just amazed at how great they are. The thing that doesn’t go away is you know it’s from hard work because you can’t make those shots and move like that without the ball and play team defense without really being committed individually and as a group. I think it’s great for basketball to see roles being filled and enjoyed.”