Golden State Warriors sharpshooter Klay Thompson will play his first straight game since 2019 when the Dubs visit the LA Clippers on Tuesday (February 14). Thompson has bye in any two consecutive games since he returned from injury in January 2022.
He suffered an ACL injury in the 2019 finals and missed the 2019-20 season. Thompson was preparing to return for the 2020-21 season, but suffered a torn Achilles tendon that forced him to miss another season and a half.
However, the former All-Star is now reaching his peak physical level. When asked about his availability for the Clippers game after playing 36 minutes the other night, Thompson gave a positive answer.
Here’s what he had to say (via Warriors on NBCS):
“I’m so excited… Big milestone. Even more fun to do it in front of the family. I’ve had so many good times in that building.” [Crypto.com Arena] with my father and my brothers and my mother”.
Klay hopes to play tomorrow night in LA 🙌 https://t.co/YRdbzM9r3u
Klay Thompson’s father, Mychal Thompson, played for the LA Lakers back in the day. He spent four seasons in Los Angeles between 1987 and 1991, playing an integral role in its 1987 and 1988 championships. Klay was born in Los Angeles and has a special relationship with the city.
Klay Thompson looks good ahead of his first straight game in almost 4 years for the Golden State Warriors
Klay Thompson last played in back-to-back contests in April 2019. The Golden State Warriors have been cautious around him since his return from multiple long-term injuries a year ago. The five-time NBA All-Star has gone through a terrible recovery and reconditioning period to get to this point.
Thompson was crucial in the Warriors’ championship run last season. He struggled earlier this season but has found his rhythm, especially after Steph Curry suffered a shoulder injury in mid-December.
Since the start of 2023, he has averaged 25.7 points and 4.1 rebounds per game, shooting in 44/43/91 splits. His contributions have helped the Golden State Warriors stay afloat in their bid to finish in the top four.
Over the past five games, he has been the best player on the team, averaging 25.8 points on 44.8% shooting from the field, including 41.8% from 3-for-13.4 attempts.
The Golden State Warriors need that production from him, with superstar Steph Curry out again with a leg injury. The Warriors are currently ninth in the West with a 29-28 record and desperately need to string together a few wins to move up the standings.