Photo: Peter Baba

Stephen Curry’s new contract gives the Golden State Warriors additional financial flexibility as they plan for the final stage of his career.

The player agreed to a two-year extension that is $20.7 million below the maximum amount he could have received.

The decision could help Golden State create significant spending power moving forward, with the franchise potentially having more than $60 million available for next summer’s strong free-agent class.

That flexibility could give the Warriors an opportunity to pursue another high-level player and strengthen the roster around Curry as he enters the later years of his career.

Curry’s health will also be an important factor. He dealt with a lingering case of “runner’s knee” late last season, prompting him to make changes to his offseason preparation.

The veteran guard said he has introduced a new workout approach designed to strengthen the affected knee before training camp.

After dealing with the issue last season, Curry said he is currently “feeling fantastic.”

Curry has played 17 seasons for the Warriors. He has averaged 24.8 points, 6.3 assists and 4.7 rebounds in 1,069 regular-season games.

He was selected to play in 12 All-Star games. He has won 2 MVP awards, 1 Finals MVP award and 4 NBA championships.