SAN FRANCISCO – Klay Thompson’s performance in the final minutes of Wednesday night’s game served as a powerful reminder of his status as a five-time NBA All-Star.
Thompson made four critical plays that were crucial for the Warriors, with the fourth play being especially timely and impressive.
With the Warriors down by one point and the Kings focusing their defense on Stephen Curry, Thompson received a pass from Draymond Green, dribbled to the left corner of the foul line, pulled up, and made a swish shot with just 0.2 seconds remaining on the clock.
The ball dropped through the net, giving the Warriors a thrilling 102-101 victory in front of a nervous but ultimately ecstatic sellout crowd of 18,064 at Chase Center.
Stephen Curry described Thompson’s shot as a “big, big, big shot for us – and for him.” Thompson himself expressed his elation, stating, “Anytime you hit a great game-winner, you’re going to feel on Cloud 9. I feel amazing. It’s a great win and I feel just wonderful.”
Thompson’s shot capped off a series of plays he made in a game that lacked rhythm, aesthetic appeal, or rhyme. Earlier in the game, he assisted Draymond Green, leading to a layup that brought the Warriors within one point. Thompson then found himself on the receiving end of a pass from Green, allowing him to make another layup and keep the Warriors within striking distance.
Thompson’s impact wasn’t limited to offense. On the defensive end, he thwarted a shot attempt by the Kings’ Harrison Barnes, leading to a shot-clock violation.
With 38.4 seconds remaining and the Warriors trailing by one, Thompson’s defensive play allowed the team to regain possession and set up their offense. Draymond Green praised Thompson’s shot-blocking prowess, stating, “Such a big play for us down the stretch. Usually, the basketball gods reward you when you make plays like that.”
And rewarded Thompson was, when he released the shot that ultimately sealed the victory with 0.2 seconds left on the clock.
This was not the first time Thompson had come through in clutch situations. He had previously made two game-winning shots in regular-season games that were decided in the final five seconds. However, according to coach Steve Kerr, hitting this shot with just 0.2 seconds left was particularly thrilling.
Throughout the game, Thompson struggled to find his rhythm and struggled with his shooting. However, he remained engaged defensively, which enabled him to make the game-winning shot. He contributed 14 points, three blocks, two rebounds, and two assists in the 29 minutes he played.
Thompson’s lackluster start to the season raised questions about his contract status. As an unrestricted free agent next summer, negotiations have cooled, though they could potentially resume.
Despite the frustrations and struggles, Thompson’s teammates were thrilled to see him come through in the clutch. Draymond Green said, “To see him hit a big shot like that in the clutch for us was big. It was even better to see his reaction.”
Klay Thompson celebrated his game-winning shot with gestures of joy and chest bumps with his teammates, signifying his redemption and immense contribution to the victory against their rivals.
Coach Steve Kerr acknowledged Thomspon’s hard work and praised his pivotal play, saying, “He’s finding a groove, and that was obviously a big play.”
Both Thompson and the Warriors hope that his strong performance and defensive tenacity continue. The front office wants to see if Thompson can continue performing at an All-Star level, which is his goal. This game was a solid step in that direction.
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