Klay Thompson Set to Return vs. Mavericks on Thursday
Golden State Warriors wing Klay Thompson has been sidelined for about a week now with what the team described as a “general illness”. During media availability at Warriors practice today, however, Thompson was present and told reporters he would be ready to go in a late-week rematch against the Dallas Mavericks, who the Dubs blew a large lead to in their matchup on Sunday.
The source of Thompson’s illness was something he described as a “massive headache”, with the NBA vet saying he wanted to ensure the safety of his teammates by keeping some distance until he was able to feel better enough to return.
While Steve Kerr had him listed as questionable, it seems Thompson’s adamant that he will be playing.
The Warriors certainly could have used Klay this week, as they fell first to the Mavericks and then to the Timberwolves last night. The injury/illness bug has certainly been a factor in the team’s recent slide, with the possibility emerging that they could slip down to the West’s 3rd seed, setting up a matchup with whoever finished at #6 as opposed to a more favorable play-in matchup.
In his last five games, Thompson has averaged 18 points, 5 boards, and 3 assists on 41% from the field and 40% from three. While there’s still some ramp-up to be done, he’s done all this in just about 30 minutes a game, which is an excellent sign of things to come as he continues his path back from injury. His offense and defense should be helpful against a Mavericks team that is weaker on the wings.
(Photo credit: John Hefti / Associated Press