Klay Thompson's Dominant Defense on Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum Should Not Go Unnoticed
By Mark Powell
The Golden State Warriors' throwback attempt at replacing Kevin Durant's production by committee has been admirable, and highlighted several aspects of the Dubs' game that we thought they'd since moved on from.
Steph Curry is Steph Curry again, as the former MVP is launching 3-pointers at a ridiculous clip, making nine more on Tuesday night. Draymond Green is the effective instigator we all know he can be at his best. However, it's Klay Thompson's defensive ability to guard one of the best backcourts in the NBA that cannot and should not go unnoticed after Game 1.
For me, @KlayThompson is the most visually correct player to watch in the NBA. Lava lamp smooth, completely likeable, and strikes like lightning. He reminds me of Havlicek in a lot of ways. #basketballtweet
— Bucci Mane (@Buccigross) May 15, 2019
Damian Lillard was 4-for-12, while CJ McCollum shot 7-of-19. That's a combined 11-for-31, a clip not nearly good enough to defeat the two-time defending champions, especially on their home floor.
Thompson's scoring prowess often takes away from the public affection for his actions on the other end of the floor. That was no doubt the case again in Game 1, as Thompson finished with 26 points of his own while hounding Portland's two stars to the point of visible frustration.
#Warriors win Game 1 by a 116-94 score led by Curry’s 36 to go with Klay Thompson’s 26. Draymond Green w/12/10/5.
— John Dickinson (@JDJohnDickinson) May 15, 2019
— led by Curry’s shooting
— excellent GSW defense
— GSW bench unit played + minutes
When the Warriors are clicking to this level, adding another former MVP back to their arsenal just seems unfair. If anything, it gives Steve Kerr the option to rest KD even further, a concept that should terrify any potential Finals opponent.