Before Klay Thompson decided to join outsider he met in free agency warrior trainer Steve Kerr for breakfast at the end of June, loud Anthony Slater of The Athletic. Although Thompson experienced a diminished role in his final season with the team, Kerr assured him that the organization still valued him and wanted him to stay. However, Kerr was also honest about Thompson's likely future had he re-signed with Golden State, which could include a full-time position on the bench.
“At the end of breakfast he said, ‘You know, I think it’s time. “I think I'm going to Dallas” Kerr said. “I understand it. I completely understood it. Sometimes a fresh start can be healthy. I think it was the right decision for him.”
Thompson will return to the Chase Center on Tuesday night, where he is expected to receive a hero's welcome. He is still a popular figure in the Bay Area, having helped the Warriors win four titles in the 13 years he was with the team. And while acknowledging that Thompson wasn't entirely happy last season, there's also a strong bond with the city and his former teammates.
“This will be as emotional as anything we have ever experienced in my time here.” Kerr said. “I think it will be even more emotional than his return to play (from injuries). “Obviously there's a finality to it now and recognition for everything he did hanging the banners, helping build the arena and just being so loved by everyone.”
There's more from the Pacific Division:
- warrior guard De'Anthony Melton made his first start of the season alongside him in Sunday's win in Oklahoma City Stephen Curry, Andrew Wiggins, Draymond Green And Trayce Jackson Davisand Kerr plans to keep this unit together, Slater Tweets. “I think it gives us a really good two-way lineup.” Kerr said. “They’ve seen what (Melton) can do on both ends.”
- The Hair clippers develop an identity without Kawhi Leonard and he should be able to return to the rotation once he has fully recovered from the inflammation in his right knee. Law Murray of The Athletic gives an overview of the team's surprising start. Murray adds that there have been no concerns about Leonard's progress, but the medical staff is cautious so he will not move into the lineup when he returns.
- Free agent addition Mohamed Bambawho hasn't played yet this season due to a knee injury, has progressed to three-on-three and five-on-five battles Broderick Turner of the Los Angeles Times. trainer Tyronn Lue suggested that there is a possibility that Bamba could be active during this Hair clippers' upcoming road trip.
- Kings guard Malik Monk will miss tonight's game with an ankle injury that is still being evaluated, sources tell NBA insider Chris Haynes (Twitter link). He had to withdraw from Sunday's competition in the first half after injuring his ankle.
