Bill Simmons has gushed about Jordan Poole’s ascendance and has always defended the greatness of Steph Curry, Draymond Green, and Klay Thompson.
He also stated on the lasted edition of “The Bill Simmons Podcast” what many Dubs fans have been afraid to admit. As Simmons laments, Klay Thompson’s “erratic” play and his inability to be an elite defender could be what stops the Golden State Warriors from returning to the NBA Finals.
“Athletically sometimes it just doesn’t look like he can hold up to the speed of the game,” Simmons discussed with frequent guest Jonathan Tjarks, who fully agreed with Simmons’ assessment. (And to be fair, Simmons also stated how much he likes Thompson.)
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It’s not Thompson’s defense alone that is an isolated concern. The celebrated "Death Lineup" has been a liability on that side of the ball throughout the playoffs, most recently in the 106-101 Game 2 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies. Simmons and Tjarks see that being an even bigger issue in the Western Conference Finals.
“They’re just going to be hunting Klay and Poole the entire game,” Simmons bluntly stated, referencing a possible matchup with Chris Paul, Devin Booker, and the Phoenix Suns. Both believe they’re vulnerable to Luka Doncic and the Dallas Mavericks as well.
It also can’t be understated how long Klay Thompson was away from the game, recovering from two devastating injuries. It'll take time for him to regain that athleticism if it ever returns.
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“He still has the quick release,” said Simmons. “But he might be moving closer to that spot shooter kind of guy vs. the well-rounded guy that he was. He was such a good defender… Not Kawhi [Leonard] level, but one level below those guys. He could guard anybody from any size basically.”
However, Thompson’s game evolves, the Warriors will need more consistency from him if they want to make another dynastic run. Even the beloved Splash Brother most likely would admit that.
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