NBA players continue to fear trash talking Stephen Curry due to his extraordinary ability to respond effectively on the court, often leading to humiliating outcomes for those who attempt to provoke him. Here are some reasons why players think twice before trash talking him:

1. **Proven Track Record**: Players who have tried trash talking Curry often end up regretting it. For instance, Kevin Porter Jr. stared down Curry during a game, only for Curry to unleash a scoring barrage that sealed the victory for the Warriors. After the game, Porter sought advice from Curry, highlighting how quickly the tables can turn[2][5].

2. **Unmatched Skills**: Curry's shooting prowess is unparalleled, making him a constant threat on the court. His ability to make difficult shots from long range means that any attempt to get into his head can backfire spectacularly. Players like Pat Beverley and Anthony Edwards have learned this lesson the hard way, as their trash talk has often resulted in Curry delivering standout performances[5][6].

3. **Mental Resilience**: Curry possesses a strong mental game, allowing him to remain unfazed by trash talk. He often uses such moments as motivation, elevating his performance when challenged. This psychological edge makes it risky for opponents to engage in verbal jabs, as they may inadvertently fuel his competitive spirit[2][4].

4. **Game-Changing Impact**: Curry's ability to shift the momentum of a game with his scoring can turn any trash talk into a significant disadvantage for the opponent. His quick scoring bursts can demoralize teams and leave trash talkers looking foolish after being outperformed on the court[5][6].

5. **Respect from Peers**: Many NBA players respect Curry's work ethic and skill level, often acknowledging him as one of the greatest shooters of all time. This respect creates an atmosphere where players are cautious about challenging him verbally, knowing that they could face dire consequences in terms of performance[6][8].

Overall, the combination of Curry's elite skills, mental toughness, and history of punishing those who trash talk makes him a player that many in the league think twice about provoking.