The Golden State Warriors could use someone like Klay Thompson right now, although their current NBA campaign is clearly out of reach. Regardless, it appears the 30-year-old guard is starting the long grind back to recovery in full battle gear.
A couple of days ago, Thompson was spotted hoisting some shots at the Chase Center and in full uniform, NBC Sports reported. The shooting sessions reportedly lasted about 20 minutes, and the basketball world took notice. Is this a sign that the three-time NBA champion will be returning soon?
In a media scrum during halftime of the Warriors vs. Mavericks game, the five-time NBA All-Star gave an update on his rehabilitation. He admits that it is tough to be in the sidelines while his teammates are grinding. However, Thompson added that he wants to make sure that this kind of injury never happens again.
"It's very rare for me not to be grinding through with them. But I'm trying to make sure this type of injury never happens to me again. So, I'll be very patient because I want to play at a high level until I'm in my late-30s," said Thompson.
With the Warriors holding a 9-33 win-loss card in the Western Conference, seeing a Thompson return may make no sense. Pundits feel it would be best not to rush him back to action and allow him to recover from his injury fully. The most he can do for now is try to stay sharp, focus on his shooting, and return by next NBA season with a bang.
Stephen Curry, the other half of the famed Splash Brothers of the Warriors, is also out injured. Like Klay, critics are eager to see if the two-time NBA MVP will be back in harness soon. Curry is out with a broken hand, which he suffered back in October. Reports are divided on his actual progress. However, Ric Bucher of the Bleacher Report claims that Curry's return may not happen since there is no competitive reason.
A clarification from my story today citing a source saying Steph Curry is likely to miss the remainder of the season: while the injury was worse than originally thought, he wouldn't play again this season because there's no competitive reason. Story is being updated. — Ric Bucher (@RicBucher) November 8, 2019
From a different perspective, both Curry and Thompson could return but on managed minutes. This would be to ensure that both stars remain in shape and avoid rustiness. That idea still poses as a risk, although it will be head coach Steve Kerr's call.
Hence, all the Warriors can do right now is bank on their current cast. Draymond Green and D'Angelo Russell are at the helm, although they need help. The Dubs are in an unusual predicament, meaning there is a lot of work ahead for the six-time NBA champs.
