The Golden State Warriors’ dynasty was built on a foundation of chemistry, defense, and elite shooting — a trio embodied by the Splash Brothers and Draymond Green. Across their NBA championship era, there were countless unforgettable moments, but few stand out like Klay Thompson’s explosion in Game 6 of the 2016 Western Conference Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Former teammate and Warriors veteran Draymond Green recently reflected on that iconic performance — one that helped define their dynasty. On The Draymond Green Show, joined by former NBA guard Baron Davis, Green recalled the desperation of trailing 3-2 in the series and the unwavering confidence Thompson carried into the game. “I remember it like it was yesterday,” Green said. “Comeback in Game 6, backs against the wall, and Klay — the whole day — was like, ‘Dray, I got us. There’s no chance we’re losing this game, bro.’ We’re down 15, and out of nowhere comes Klay Thompson.”
Thompson poured in 41 points, drilling an NBA playoff-record 11 three-pointers in the process, as the Warriors clawed their way back from a double-digit deficit. Golden State’s 15-point comeback led to a 108-101 victory in Oklahoma City, forcing a Game 7 — which they would also win — capping off a dramatic turnaround as the Thunder infamously blew a 3-1 series lead.
Green also used the moment to reflect on the unpredictable nature of postseason basketball. That 2016 run was a tale of two comebacks — Golden State reversed a 3-1 deficit against OKC, only to suffer the same fate weeks later against the Cleveland Cavaliers in the NBA Finals. The drama, the swings, the stakes — it’s what makes the playoffs special.
Andre Iguodala #9, Draymond Green #23, Klay Thompson #11 and Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors pose for a photo after defeating the Boston Celtics
While it may be difficult to envision a modern playoff scenario as wild as 2016’s, players like Jalen Brunson — who just powered the Knicks to a dominant Game 5 win — are capable of putting together performances that swing a series. For the Indiana Pacers, who are again staring down a surging star, the echoes of heartbreak may feel eerily familiar.
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Meanwhile, the Warriors’ offseason narrative has shifted back to roster construction. Draymond Green recently responded to comments made by head coach Steve Kerr regarding his role at center — a spot Green has often filled out of necessity, but not preference. Kerr noted the team would pursue a starting center this offseason so Green could slide back to his natural power forward position.
Green welcomed the idea, though acknowledged the toughness required when he’s forced to guard bigger opponents nightly. “Playing the five, it’s too much,” Green said. “I’m always down to do it, you know that — I’ll take on any challenge. But it’s a hard battle every night. Guys outweigh me by 60 to 80 pounds, and they’re four to six inches taller. I’ve got the energy in the first half, but the second half wears on you.”
He elaborated on the physical and mental toll of anchoring the defense night after night. “It’s not just guarding — it’s putting out fires every possession. I’m built for it, and I’ll do it if our organization needs it. But I agree with Steve — we can start with a true center, and if we need to go to small-ball, I’ll be ready. But it’s a lot.”
