Golden State Warriors guard Klay Thompson has been a rock for the better part of the last few years, but now it seems that he might have become a liability.
However, the four-time NBA Champion found himself in unfamiliar waters, sitting out in the fourth quarter of last night's game against the Brooklyn Nets.
Thompson kept his role as a starter for the Warriors, but head coach Steve Kerr opted to bench him in the fourth quarter; going with a lineup that featured the team's younger talent in the Golden State 109-98 win against the Nets.
Klay Thompson was subbed out with 7:17 minutes remaining in the fourth quarter in favor of Moses Moody. Throughout the remainder of the period, Johnathan Kuminga, Branon Podziemski, Draymond Green, and Stephen Curry also closed the game out.
Rookie Gui Santos also saw minutes in the closing quarter.
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Golden State Warriors: Klay Thompson on Benching
Thompson, who finished the game with eight points, on four for nine shooting from the field and 0 from 3pt territory in 30 minutes of play, voiced his frustrations on sitting out the fourth quarter.
"Yeah," Thompson said when asked if his changing role has been an adjustment. "Are you kidding me? Go from, you know, one of the best players ... It's hard for anybody."
He added, "I'll be honest with you. It's very hard."
It's been a difficult season for Thompson so far, who is posting his lowest averages since his sophomore season in the NBA.
Through 45 games this season he is averaging 17.1 points and shooting career worsts of 41.5% from the field, along with 37.1% from 3-point range. Compared to last season's 21.9 points and 41% from the 3-point range.
"I feel great, physically," Thompson said after the game. "Mentally, probably a little different story, but such is life, you know?"
Golden State Warriors: Will Klay Thompson Move On From Warriors
Thompson will be an unrestricted free agent this summer, and there is some speculation on whether the five time all-star will return to Golden State or if the franchise will seek a trade.
Unfortunately, it is likely the Warriors will move on from Thompson this summer.
Though he voiced his frustrations on the benching, he was happy to see the young players get some opportunities in the fourth quarter.
"It's all good - these guys played great," Thompson said, crediting Jonathan Kuminga and rookies Gui Santos and Brandin Podziemski. "At the end of the day, winning trumps all."
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