Klay Thompson was primed for his first start in almost two weeks with a couple of hours at the South Florida beach and a short plunge in the Atlantic.
Thompson led the Warriors to a 113-92 victory over the Miami Heat on Tuesday, reigniting the team’s fading postseason aspirations. Thompson appeared rested and rejuvenated after the short holiday.
Thompson shot 11 of 20 for a game-high 28 points, finishing with a scorching plus-25. The Warriors needed this game badly after suffering two heartbreaking losses to the Minnesota Timberwolves and Indiana Pacers.
Thompson told reporters at Kaseya Center, “There’s just something about being in this tropical air that just has you feeling loose.” “I’m really happy with how we responded after a tough loss in Minnesota—this is a must-win.”
Ever since he was benched close to the NBA All-Star break, Thompson has assumed the role of a devoted soldier. He had been a reliable player off the bench for the previous month and didn’t raise any eyebrows when he was demoted.
However, head coach Steve Kerr decided to spice things up, starting rookie Brandin Podziemski in place of Thompson after the Warriors had been playing poorly as a team for a few weeks.
It was believed that with Thompson on the court, players like Andrew Wiggins and Jonathan Kuminga would have more space to attack. They succeeded, but Thompson also made the most of his chance to prove he was still a formidable danger from Golden State’s four championship teams.
Kerr, meanwhile, is highlighting a particular necessity against the Heat and isn’t prepared to commit to starting Thompson with the starting lineup.
To begin the game, Kerr remarked, “I just felt like (we needed) a little more spacing on the floor.” It doesn’t always imply that it will last. That was just what I thought was significant tonight.
Either way Kerr goes, don’t expect Thompson to raise much of a fuss. He is aware of his professional status and the Warriors’ standing in the standings. Despite receiving some love from the Heat, Thompson is aware that on Wednesday at Orlando, he may return to the bench.
When asked about his sense of pride, Thompson was very honest.
Ever since I put on basketball sneakers, I’ve been arrogant, Thompson remarked. My play on the basketball floor reflects a lot about who I am. In addition to my older brother and myself, my father was also a hooper. I’m proud of myself for merely attempting to be my best every night. Even though it’s extremely difficult, the greats strive to accomplish it every night.
Thompson has made at least six 3-pointers in a game ten times this season, but it was his first since February 27.
Center Kevon Looney stated, “He’s an important member of our team.” He has likely been playing exceptionally well since before the All-Star break. He has been playing solid basketball on both sides of the court. We rely on him to be good and to be a unique team.
When he came off the bench, Thompson claimed he attempted to maintain the same strategy he had been using as a starter.
Although that seems very straightforward, really putting it into practice is far more challenging.
Guard Stephen Curry praised him for his ability to adapt to every role that has been assigned to him this season, whether it be starting or coming off the bench. Perhaps most individuals believe that switching from one to the other is simple. It’s not. To be ready for whatever that comes your way, you have to kind of prime your body and mind. His attitude, preparation, and ability to go out there do hoops as well as he does are all credits to him.
It’s undeniable that if the Warriors are to barely make the playoffs, Thompson will need to play more games like this over the next two and a half weeks.
But according to Thompson, it needs to go further than that.
“We have to play the style of ball that has been so successful over the last ten years—moving it, switching to defense, on-ball persistence, and just having faith in one another and playing without self-interest,” Thompson stated. And, most importantly, enjoying yourself. It’s a lovely thing to be a part of when we’re playing connected and having fun.
