Steve Kerr, the head coach of the Golden State Warriors, recently shared his insight on the role of Klay Thompson in the upcoming NBA season. In an interview with ESPN, Kerr revealed that Thompson, who is known for his exceptional shooting skills, will be primarily utilized as a bench contributor for the team. This decision comes as a surprise to many fans and analysts who have been eagerly awaiting Thompson’s return after a two-year absence due to injury.
Thompson, a three-time NBA champion and one of the league’s most prolific shooters, suffered a devastating ACL tear during the 2019 NBA Finals. He then faced another setback in November 2020 when he tore his Achilles tendon during a workout. These injuries have kept him away from competitive basketball for an extended period, and his return has been highly anticipated by both the Warriors organization and their loyal fan base.
However, Kerr’s decision to keep Thompson on the bench is not without reason. The Warriors have undergone significant changes since Thompson’s last appearance on the court. The team has added new players, including the dynamic scoring threat Andrew Wiggins and the promising rookie James Wiseman. With these additions, Kerr believes that Thompson’s role as a bench contributor will provide valuable depth and firepower to the team’s second unit.
Kerr emphasized that Thompson’s shooting ability and experience will be crucial in maintaining a competitive edge throughout the game. He stated, “Klay is such an incredible shooter that he can change a game with his scoring ability alone. Having him come off the bench will give us a significant advantage against opposing teams’ second units.”
While some may argue that Thompson deserves a starting role based on his past achievements, Kerr’s decision highlights the importance of easing him back into competitive play after such a long absence. By gradually increasing his minutes and workload, the coaching staff aims to ensure Thompson’s long-term health and effectiveness. Kerr acknowledged this concern, stating, “We want to be cautious with Klay and make sure he’s fully ready before we thrust him back into a starting role. We have to prioritize his longevity and ensure he can contribute at a high level for years to come.”
Thompson’s role as a bench contributor also opens up opportunities for other players to showcase their skills. It allows younger players to gain valuable experience and develop their game while playing alongside a seasoned veteran like Thompson. Kerr expressed his excitement about the potential growth of the team, saying, “Having Klay on the bench will not only benefit him but also provide our younger players with a chance to learn from one of the best shooters in NBA history.”
The decision to keep Thompson as a bench contributor is undoubtedly a strategic move by Kerr and the Warriors coaching staff. It aims to maximize the team’s overall performance while ensuring Thompson’s seamless reintegration into the lineup. As fans eagerly await Thompson’s return, they can take solace in knowing that his impact on the court, whether as a starter or a bench contributor, will undoubtedly be felt by both his teammates and opponents alike.
In conclusion, Steve Kerr’s recent insight regarding Klay Thompson’s role as a bench contributor has sparked discussions and debates among basketball enthusiasts. While some may question this decision, Kerr’s rationale of prioritizing Thompson’s long-term health and providing depth to the team’s second unit is understandable. As the NBA season approaches, all eyes will be on Thompson as he makes his highly anticipated comeback, ready to showcase his shooting prowess and contribute to the Golden State Warriors’ quest for success.