Steph Curry vs LeBron James has been the Finals rivalry that has dominated the headlines over recent years, but with the Los Angeles Lakers out of playoff contention, the post-season will have a very different look for the first time since 2005 without James.

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"It's different, but what is it? (Eight) straight Finals he went to? I'm sure it's a different experience for him, for better or worse," Curry said, via ESPN's Ohm Youngmisuk.

"Obviously the rest of the league continues to go, a lot of talent, a lot of great storylines, people chasing championships," Curry added. "But he's had an amazing run. Pretty sure he'll be able to reset for next year and regroup. It's just different [with James not in the playoffs]"

James missed Friday's game against the Golden State Warriors at Staples Center, with the Lakers shutting down the 34-year-old for the remainder of the season as he manages the groin injury which he suffered against Curry's squad on Christmas Day, sidelining him 17-straight games.

The Lakers season went downhill after that, dropping from fourth in the Western Conference to out of the playoff race, currently sitting at 35-44 on the season. 

Injuries to Lonzo Ball, Kyle Kuzma, Josh Hart and Brandon Ingram added to the Lakers woes this season, not to mention the drama surrounding Anthony Davis' potential trade to Hollywood at the deadline.

While the Lakers now turn their attention to what is set to be free agency circus in the off-season, with a host of All-Star talent available, including Curry's teammates Kevin Durant and Klay Thompson, along with Kawhi Leonard, Jimmy Butler, Kemba Walker, Tobias Harris, Khris Middleton and Kyrie Irving.

Meanwhile, Curry's Warriors have their sights set on their fourth NBA title in the past five seasons, currently sitting atop the Western Conference at 54-24.