Warriors’ star Klay Thompson made a huge impact in his season debut game against the Cavs
Klay Thompson finally resumed NBA action and the return was more than overwhelming for him. Dubs fans didn’t even wait for the game as they cheered Thompson throughout his pre-game warm-ups. That made Klay emotional, and he delivered greatly on the court for the fans.
All media eyes were on the game as Thompson was playing in an NBA game after 941 days gap. Reports, training sessions, and shooting practices had confirmed Klay’s good condition but actual in-game action is what matters the most. And Thompson ticked that also with a sublime performance against the Cavs.
Thompson got directly into the starting line-up, linking him with his “Splash-brother” Stephen Curry. Klay took just 40 seconds to get on the score sheet for the team, scoring his and the team’s 1st basket of the game.
Klay continued to make some impressive shots to clear any doubts over his shooting. Thompson even scored with a dunk showcasing his athleticism. He was 7-of-18 from the field and 3-of-8 from the three-point range. Thompson played just 20 minutes in the game, finishing with 17 points, 3 rebounds, and 1 assist.
The Warriors won the game 96-82, ending a 2-game losing streak. They are now level with the Suns at the top of the Western Conference. Golden State will face in-form Grizzlies next Tuesday.
Klay Thompson reaching milestones in the game
It was not just about his return for Klay, he reached some impressive milestones in the game.
With his second 3 pointer in the game, Thompson became the fastest player (616 games) to score 1800 threes in NBA, only behind his teammate Stephen Curry (545 games). These two have changed the dynamics of the game with their efficient and countless 3’s in a game.
Also, Klay Thompson now scored 12000+ points in NBA.
Speaking about his return, the duration of 31 months is in the top 10 list of players making their return to the game after injury. Cousins (ACL-nearly 30 months, with limited game time), Derrick Rose (ACL-nearly 30 months, with limited game time), Joel Embiid (Foot injury -2 years) are some of the players who returned to NBA action after a long period.
But not many players have shown similar recovery from dangerous ACL injury like Klay has shown in the game. He might be the only 3rd player (after Kobe Bryant and Kevin Durant) to defy the injury so effectively.
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