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Kendra AndrewsESPN
SAN FRANCISCO Klay ThompsonYou walked down the hall to the Court. Golden State WarriorsThe locker room was filled with cheers and applause from fans, who were clapping their hands and shouting “Good game Klay!”
Thompson exclaimed, “That one felt good,” and he high-fived some of the others along the way. Thompson entered the locker room and could hear more whooping, hollering from the other side.
It was Thompson’s best performance in more than two years. Thompson scored 38 points, shooting 15 of 24, including six 3-pointers and five assists, in the Warriors’ season finale. 122-109 winOver the Milwaukee Bucks.
Thompson’s first such game since March 2019 was this one. It was also, for the Warriors at large, Thompson’s best performance in the past two week.
Thompson shot an average of 34% from the field and 23.3% at 3.
Thompson smiled, chuckling. “I don’t like how I was shooting, but I know that these nights are inside me. It’s all in my head. I have done so many amazing things that players never did before that it is hard to doubt my abilities.”
Steve Kerr, Warriors coach said, “I’m certain it’s relief.” Kerr had mentioned that Thompson was forcing shots just two nights prior. Kerr also noted that Thompson’s shooting slump could be attributed to this. Thompson agreed.
Kerr said, “He is so hard on his self and wants so much to succeed.” He seemed to have let the game take him by surprise. He didn’t hunt shots. He’s taken the tough shots early in the games. This has prevented him from getting into rhythm. It felt like he was making better shots tonight… Klay, once two go in, the more difficult ones are a lot easier.”
Thompson was 8-12 for catch-and shoot scenarios. He says that’s where he’s at the best. For 27 points, Thompson was also 11-of-18 in contested shots.
Thompson’s performance was a microcosmic representation of the Warriors’ night.
The team displayed a great offensive display, with Thompson shooting 48.4% from the ground and Thompson shooting 40% from 3. The team’s impressive shooting performance was similar to Thompson’s. They shot 48.4% from the floor and 40% from 3.
This was the place Kerr wanted to see improve before Draymond GreenHe has now returned from the back injury which kept him out of action for more than two months. Kerr stated that Green’s presence could not be altered automatically. It is something Golden State’s players had to work out.
The process of decision-making began with Stephen CurryKerr stated that he has been performing more traditional point guard duties than ever. Curry was unable to do that against the Bucks as they tried multiple double- and triple-teams on him throughout the night.
He was able to finish with eight assists, scoring only eight points on 3-of-7 shots. He made his first attempt at a field goal in less than 10 minutes since April 9, 2019, when the game was over.
“If they plan to commit two crimes to Steph, then (Thompson). Jordan PooleKerr said that “()are going, it’s tough to defend.”
Poole was able to finish the night with 30 points. Meanwhile, Andrew Wiggins21.
Thompson stated, “I don’t believe a player can see as many triple- and double-teams” “It helped me a lot. He takes great pride on the court and I’m grateful for that. It allows for so many great looks from the other guys — which would not be anyone but Steph.”
Thompson was able to use the Bucks’ attention on Curry to get out of his funk, and the Warriors were in a position to welcome Green back Monday.
Thompson said, “I was excited for a evening like this.” It was a huge boost in our confidence and in my confidence. I wanted 40 points. I think 38 points is great, but 40 sounds much better. Whatever. It was a great night at work.”