The last time Klay Thompson appeared in the playoffs, he limped off the court after making a couple free throws in Game 6 of the 2019 NBA Finals. Minutes earlier, he crumpled to the floor after tearing his ACL.
Nearly three years later and Klay can’t wait for the postseason.
“I’m just really excited to play playoff basketball,” Thompson said Tuesday. “I haven’t played it in a few years. The best time to be an NBA player is during those playoff moments and I can’t wait to experience them again.”
The Warriors have three games left in the regular season, beginning with Thursday night’s matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers. Thompson will likely play in one of the team’s back-to-back contests over the weekend to wrap up the regular season. The Warriors will then have a five or six day layoff before the first round begins on April 16 or April 17.
By that time, the franchise is hopeful that Steph Curry will be back. Warriors coach Steve Kerr said Curry is on the court and shooting again, which is a great sign, but he’s yet to join his teammates for full practice. The Warriors feel like they have momentum after winning two in a row, but are 3-6 in the nine games Curry has missed since Boston Celtics guard Marcus Smart injured his left ankle going for a loose ball.
Thompson can’t wait to get back on the floor with his Splash Brother.
“The great thing about Steph is you don’t have to worry about him getting the work in, he’s gonna do it,” Thompson said. “We’ll welcome him with big arms when he comes because we’re obviously not the same team without him.
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Thompson is also excited to feel the chemistry between him, Draymond Green and Curry. The trio of champions have only shared the floor for 11 minutes together this season while dealing with respective injuries.
Draymond said he's finding his timing and rhythm as he's about three weeks into his own back injury recovery. His impact has been felt over the past couple of victories.
“I think Draymond is an incredible talker,” Thompson said. “His ability to see the game is second to none and just his will to win is so incredible. Draymond is one of the greatest (draft) steals in NBA history and someone who will be immortalized through this franchise and through his hard work and his heart he displays every night on the court. It’s awesome.”
The goal now? A sixth trip to the Finals and fourth championship.
