Since his rookie season with the Golden State Warriors, Klay Thompson has stood out as one of the NBA’s top talents, debuting with 66 games and a 12.5 point average. Over 11 years, he became a key player, contributing to four championships and earning five consecutive All-Star selections. However, a three-time All-Defensive star recently criticized his tenure, suggesting another player might have excelled in his spot.
“If you put Paul George in that role as Klay Thompson, playing with Steph [Curry], Draymond Green, and [Andre] Iguodala… I think that Golden State probably wins more championships,” Patrick Beverley said, via The Pat Bev Show.
While many share Beverley’s opinion, Klay Thompson’s impact on the Warriors was crucial as he perfectly complemented Stephen Curry, enhancing the team’s overall performance. Although he was not a scoring leader, his impact in the clutch moments was crucial for the franchise. Also, his remarkable basketball IQ, which truly set him apart as he could contribute in many undervalued aspects such as the defensive side.
At his best version, Paul George stood out as a key player, excelling both offensively and defensively. A candidate for Defensive Player of the Year, he also averaged 28 points during the 2018-19 season with the Oklahoma City Thunder. Despite these achievements, his profile might not align with what the Warriors seek. Klay Thompson’s seamless synergy with Stephen Curry made him indispensable, making difficult to consider another player in his spot.
Klay Thompson #11 of the Golden State Warriors reacts after making a three-point shot against the Utah Jazz during first half at Chase Center on April 07, 2024.
During their tenure with the Golden State Warriors, Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson shared the court for 666 NBA games, solidifying their status as integral components of Steve Kerr’s system. Their chemistry allowed them to play seamlessly, giving the team’s gameplay an effortless fluidity. Reflecting on this partnership in 2024, Curry candidly discussed the complexities surrounding his departure.
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“But for me and Klay, there was always that level of trust and nonverbal communication on the court that we always could rely on and that’s built over time. The transition has been attached to not just Klay not being here but us trying to figure out what this specific team needs to be successful. It’s kind of all blended in together…, ‘Oh, this is where Klay would have been.’ Or ‘This is a play that we would have run.’,” Stephen Curry said, via NBC Sports.
Paul George may have been a more individually talented player than Klay Thompson at his peak, but talent alone does not ensure success within a franchise. It’s the synergy and collective balance that lead to titles. This is precisely why the Golden State Warriors thrived. Their formidable trio of Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Klay Thompson made a significant impact, propelling the team to four NBA championships.
