Klay Thompson hasn’t been reaching his usual standards this season. His impact has decreased on both sides of the ball, and at times, that’s led to the veteran being less jovial than many have come to expect from him. However, it would appear head coach Steve Kerr has provided him with some words of wisdom.
When speaking to the media following the Golden State Warriors 121-115 win over the Orlando Magic, Thompson detailed his conversation with Kerr. He noted how the veteran head coach advised him to embrace his career’s final years and stop obsessing over his stat lines and on-court performances.
“Steve and I had a great conversation yesterday,” Thompson said. “That helped me relax a lot. Sometimes, I forget how successful and how lucky I’ve been to be part of the championship teams and All-Star games and gold medals. And, when you want to get back to that level so badly, you can kind of get in your own way. Rather than forcing it, we had a conversation about just enjoying this last chapter of my career and how lucky I truly am to still be playing this game and doing it at a high level.
Being a better mentor for these young guys, leading by example, and having my energy right every game. He helped me realize that I do have negative energy and how that affects the team. We had a great conversation that helped me change my whole mindset.”
Throughout his career, Thompson has been one of the best shooters in the NBA. He’s also been one of the best defenders for his size and at his position. However, he’s likely forcing things a little too much. Part of that is likely tied to his impending free agency and wanting to earn a contract.
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Warriors fans will now be hoping that Thompson begins to play more freely and can start impacting the game with his leadership as well as his shooting ability off the catch. Golden State will face the Denver Nuggets on Thursday (Jan. 4) in their third matchup this season.
