Klay Thompson, a key figure in the Golden State Warriors’ formidable legacy, is confronting a challenging season marked by a significant dip in performance that led to his benching in a recent game against the Phoenix Suns. The star shooting guard admitted that he deserved the benching, acknowledging his subpar play.
In the aftermath of the Warriors’ narrow 119-116 loss to the Suns, Thompson expressed the strangeness of being on the bench during crunch time but affirmed that he fully understood and accepted the decision. He candidly admitted:
“I’ve been playing like crap.”
Klay Thompson said it was “strange” to be benched to close the game but said he “deserved” to be benched: “I’ve been playing like crap.” He said he wasn’t given explanation but “I trust Steve. I trust Steve now and forever will.”
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) December 13, 2023
Thompson’s struggles were evident in the game against the Suns, where he had a difficult night, shooting 2-of-10 from the field and 1-of-8 from three-point range, contributing only seven points. The Warriors‘ head coach, Steve Kerr, opted to lean on the bench, with five reserve players scoring in double figures and the entire bench amassing 80 points compared to the starters’ 36 points.
The 33-year-old veteran, a five-time All-Star and four-time NBA champion, is enduring a challenging season statistically. Averaging just 15.4 points per game in 22 games, Thompson is experiencing his lowest scoring production since his rookie season in 2011-12. Additionally, he is shooting at a career-low 39.7 percent from the field and 34.3 percent from beyond the arc.
Thompson’s unexpected struggles, especially in three-point shooting, are particularly noteworthy given his reputation as one of the best sharpshooters in NBA history. His career three-point shooting percentage of 41.4 percent and his rank of 10th on the all-time list for three-pointers made underscore his prowess from beyond the arc.
The challenges extend beyond Thompson’s individual performance, as the Warriors find themselves with a disappointing 10-13 record, placing them 11th in the competitive Western Conference. The team’s struggles and Thompson’s performance have raised questions about the future, especially considering Thompson’s impending free agency.
Reports suggest that the Warriors offered Thompson a $48 million contract for two years, but uncertainties loom over whether he will remain with the team. Thompson’s contract situation has been described as a potential factor contributing to his slow start this season.
As the Warriors aim to navigate a challenging season and climb the Western Conference standings, much is expected from Klay Thompson. Coach Kerr, in benching Thompson, appears to be exploring different strategies to spark a turnaround.
However, for the Warriors to regain their winning form, Thompson’s resurgence will be crucial as the season unfolds. The uncertainties surrounding Thompson’s future add an intriguing layer to the narrative, making this season a pivotal one for both the player and the team.
Klay Thompson Is Now Playing For His NBA Star Status
Klay Thompson finds himself at a critical juncture in his NBA career, playing not only for a potentially lucrative contract but also for the preservation of his star status and legendary legacy. While any team would covet a player of Thompson’s caliber, his iconic status is deeply intertwined with the Golden State Warriors.
The Warriors, facing financial constraints, may struggle to offer Thompson a substantial contract if his current performance persists. Thompson recognizes the need to elevate his game, not just for personal gain but to secure his place alongside longtime teammates Stephen Curry and Draymond Green in the annals of Warriors history.
Thompson’s desire to finish his career as a Warrior, contributing to the storied legacy he helped build, hinges on a resurgence in form. The current trajectory, marked by struggles on the court, jeopardizes the possibility of the triumvirate of Curry, Green, and Thompson continuing to leave an indelible mark on the Warriors’ history.
As he navigates this pivotal phase, Thompson is not merely playing in the NBA; he is fighting to sustain his star status and preserve a legacy that remains synonymous with the Warriors’ golden era.
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