Did Steph's greatness hurt Klay on NBA 75? Bob Ryan thinks so

Warriors fans know by now how upset Klay Thompson was when he didn’t make the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team.

And if you look at Thompson’s body of work, there is a case to be made. He’s a three-time NBA champion, a five-time All Star, a two-time All-NBA Third Team member, and of course holds the record for most points in a quarter with 37 and most 3-pointers made in a game with 14. Add to that legendary playoff moments like Game 6 Klay, and you realize why the Splash Brother is a bit peeved.

Legendary NBA writer Bob Ryan agrees that Thompson’s body of work was enough, voting for him to be included in the NBA 75 list. His reason for the omission? His fellow Splash Brother Steph Curry’s GOAT-status could be to blame. 

“I think what hurts Klay Thompson,” Ryan said on The Bill Simmons Podcast. “The other guy is better. He plays along[side] the greatest shooter of all time, but he’s the guy that had a 37 point quarter by the way. He’s had pretty big playoff moments.”

RELATED: Klay Thompson rocks custom Jackie Moon Warriors practice jersey

Simmons disagreed with Ryan that Thompson should have been included on the list, saying he didn’t think the body of work was there yet, but also agreed with Ryan’s points and noted Thompson’s great defense. Also on Thompson’s list of accolades - NBA All-Defensive Second Team in 2019.

It’s a fun debate, and for the rest of the league, they better be on notice.

Golden State Warriors

Find the latest Golden State Warriors news, highlights, analysis and more with NBC Sports Bay Area and California.

Santos provides Warriors with energy that embodies all of Brazil

Klay shares passionate response to whether he regrets joining Mavs

Klay is mad. He’s motivated. And he’s already said he wants at least one or two more championships. If the Splash Brothers pull that off, Thompson will never have to worry about being included in any more greatest NBA lists.

Download and follow the Dubs Talk Podcast

Contact Us