Klay Thompson is one of the best shooters in NBA History but has been sidelined since the 2019 NBA Finals after a torn ACL and Achilles injury. The Golden State Warriors have been on a roll this season, arguably without their second-best player. Klay is soon to return to perhaps the hottest team in NBA right now.
However, how will Klay Thompson return impact the warriors and the rest of the league?
More Offensive Opportunities
Warriors offensive basketball plays has always been a pass-first mentality by finding good shots for great shots. They currently rank first on offence, with Stephen Curry leading the charge (28 PPG). Once Klay returns this month, we will witness the 'Old School Warriors Basketball' back in action, as the defence cannot afford to double-team Steph often and let one of the best shooters get wide-open shots.
Moreover, Klay is a microwave as once he gets hot, no defender in the world can contain him. Let's not forget that he scored 60 points in just 3 quarters while taking only 11 dribbles! Warriors offensive efficiency will go through the roof as the 'Death Lineup' will be on full display.
Defensive Nightmare
Steve Kerr and his staff pride themselves in creating a defensive mindset within the team. Draymond Green has always been their defensive anchor, and the addition of Gary Payton II and Andrew Wiggins have propelled them with the best defensive rating in the league. Klay is an elite defender who guards some of the best scoring players in the NBA.
After an ACL and Achillies injury, it will be hard to regain athleticism, but his defensive instinct will still stay intact. Imagine when Klay and Wiseman return to the lineup, teams will have a hard time scoring buckets.
Increased Depth
Jordan Poole has been a revelation for the warriors as he is currently averaging 18.1 PPG while shooting 45% from the field. Once Klay returns, Poole will provide firepower from the bench along with some crucial pieces like Andre Iguodala, GP2, JTA, Otto Porter, Damion Lee, Bjelica and Kuminga.
Warriors will have the deepest team in the league, with role players perfectly complimenting the All-Stars. This team reminds us of the OG 2015-16 Warriors when they first won the championship, which had a couple of All-Stars with complementary role players who understood their role perfectly.
Klay Thompson is one of the most likeable players in the league, and seeing him struggle through horrific injury is enough to make grown men cry. We wish to see him in action soon and hope he continues to wreak havoc on both ends of the floor.
Let us know what you think about Klay's return to the NBA.
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