(Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
The Golden State Warriors have a new-look starting lineup.
Klay Thompson was the odd man out in favor of rookie SG Brandin Podziemski.
However, being demoted to the second unit may have been just what he needed to get his legs back under him.
That’s why, following the loss to the Denver Nuggets, Stephen Curry wanted to make it loud and clear that his fellow Splash Brother is still one of the best players in the league (Via Warriors on NBC Sports).
“No matter if it’s a starting role or bench role … He’s still Klay Thompson,” Curry said.
“No matter if it’s a starting role or bench role … He’s still Klay Thompson.”
Steph on Klay’s impact off the bench pic.twitter.com/UcOUOwBun4
— Warriors on NBCS (@NBCSWarriors) February 26, 2024
Thompson has been quite solid in three out of four games coming off the bench, with the sole exception of a three-point performance vs. the Los Angeles Lakers.
He scored 23 in the loss to the Nuggets, and he was still on the floor for 31 minutes despite not being a starter.
NBA coaches have said it tirelessly; it’s not about who starts but about who finishes games, and Thompson has been on the floor in crunch time after losing his spot in the starting lineup.
Thompson is no longer the player he used to be, and chances are he won’t get back to his All-Star level at this point in his career.
Even so, he should get plenty of credit for being willing to take one for the team and embrace a lesser role if that’s what it takes to help them win.
Also, it wouldn’t be shocking to see him having some huge games off the bench, as we’re still talking about one of the greatest shooters this game has ever seen.
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