Steph Curry and LeBron James have gotten to know each other very well in the NBA playoffs over the years -- an opportunity that isn't lost on the Warriors star.
But after facing James and the Cleveland Cavaliers in four straight NBA Finals from 2015 to 2018, Curry noticed the Los Angeles Lakers version of the league's all-time scoring leader plays a little bit differently.
"You have to reflect on everything we’ve all gone through since the ‘15 Finals, and just appreciate the opportunity to have another chapter in that battle, in that competition," Curry told reporters after the Warriors' 117-112 loss to the Lakers in Game 1 of the Western Conference semifinals Tuesday at Chase Center.
"Obviously once the ball drops, it’s a different feel just based on how the Lakers play versus the old Cavs teams, and even just the different style that [James is] playing. He’s trying to come at you a little differently, space you out a little bit, and he’s shooting a lot more threes, stuff like that."
James attempted a team-high eight 3-pointers in Game 1, making just one but finishing the contest with 22 points on 9-of-24 shooting from the field, 11 rebounds and four assists. In Cleveland, it was all James. But in Los Angeles, the four-time NBA MVP doesn't have to do it all.
Despite the game's end result -- and Anthony Davis' dominance for the Lakers -- Curry still was able to appreciate being able to face James in the postseason again.
Golden State Warriors
Find the latest Golden State Warriors news, highlights, analysis and more with NBC Sports Bay Area and California.
"It’s just a little different vibe, but there is a reflection of just how awesome and special this battle is, and the fact that we get to do it again," Curry said. "We want to come out on top, and it’s going to be a fun series all the way around. But there is a moment of reflection, for sure, just how cool this is all these years later."
RELATED: Steph hilariously explains why LeBron followed him to bench
James and the Lakers had the upper hand in Game 1. But if history shows anything, it's that Curry and Co. will come out with a vengeance in Game 2 on Thursday at Chase Center.