Klay Thompson: “I feel great physically”

Klay Thompson found himself absent from the Golden State Warriors’ closing moments for the second time in the last three games, marking a new and challenging experience for the seasoned player as he grapples with this unfamiliar situation.

“Yeah,” Thompson said, when asked if his changing role has been an adjustment. “You kidding me? Go from, you know, one of the best players … it’s hard for anybody.

“I’ll be honest with you. It’s very hard.”

Thompson’s defensive performance has shown a decline, coupled with a departure from his usual high shooting standards. In light of this, Warriors coach Steve Kerr has been exploring other players to contribute and secure crucial victories for Golden State.

“He’s fine,” Kerr said about Thompson. “This is a season where he’s had a lot of ups and downs. It’s not easy for a guy who’s been so good and a Hall of Fame player to deal with the injuries and … it’s never easy for any player, getting older. [But] he’s mentally tough.”

Thompson expressed that the mental aspect is where he’s facing some challenges.

“I feel great physically,” Thompson said. “Mentally, probably a little different story. But such is life, huh?”