Steve Kerr FINALLY REVEALS Warriors’ shocking small ball line-up with Steph Curry, Klay Thompson, Chris Paul starting together

Steve Kerr plans to have Klay Thompson defend power forwards in a lineup next to Chris Paul, Stephen Curry, Andrew Wiggins and Kevin Looney

Steve Kerr FINALLY REVEALS Warriors’ shocking small ball line-up with Steph Curry, Klay Thompson, Chris Paul starting together

Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson (ESPN), Chris Paul (ABC News) and Steve Kerr (Bleacher Report)

Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr has surprised many by revealing a new defensive strategy which demands a new role from star Klay Thompson. The Warriors look likely to start Thompson alongside recent signing Chris Paul and Stephen Curry as Kerr plans to utilize Thompson as a defender against opposing power forwards in specific lineups.

This new strategy initially raised eyebrows but reflects the changing dynamics of the game. With power forward positions in the NBA, often filled by floor-spacers rather than traditional big men, Thompson, a shooting guard, is poised to exploit these matchups effectively.

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Kerr reported, “If we play that lineup [with Klay Thompson at small forward, instead of shooting guard], which I’m anticipating doing, barring injury, Klay would guard the four-man [power forward]. He’s so physically strong, he’s so used to guarding post-up players after switches. So, we’re thinking Klay can guard as a four this year. We’re going to put him in coverage, where he is having to fit to defend pick-and-roll as a four. That would be a different job for him. We’re planning on doing some of that, and seeing how he does.”

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This new defensive approach gains added significance due to Draymond Green‘s absence caused by an ankle injury, forcing the dubs to innovate defensively. Despite concerns about Thompson’s ability to handle bigger and broader opponents, Kerr remains confident in his star player’s adaptability.

Entering his 13th season in the NBA at 33, Thompson gears up for his ‘contract year,’ set to make $43,219,440. After a rigorous offseason, he’s primed for a standout season, driven by personal goals and a new challenge from coach Kerr.

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Klay Thompson Unfazed by his Contract Status with the Golden State Warriors

Despite the lack of progress on a potential extension, the 33-year-old warriors superstar Klay Thompson seemed remarkably unperturbed about his contract status during a media address on October 2. As he enters the final year of his contract, shooting guard Thompson stands on the brink of unrestricted free agency.

While the NBA world awaited his decision on this matter, Thompson opted for a nonchalant approach. In a departure from typical discussions around contracts and team dynamics, he chose to focus on life beyond the court.

Klay Thompson. (Credit-Golden State of Mind)

Talking to the media recently, Thompson said, ” “I think it’s possible and if not, life is still great,” Thompson said. “Like I’m playing basketball in my 13th year in the NBA. I have no complaints about whatever the future has in store. I’ve done so many great things in this uniform and I know there are many more memories to make. Whatever happens, life is great!”

Thompson, recovering from two major injuries, completed his first full NBA season since 2018-19. Despite impressive shooting at 41.2% on 10.6 attempts per game, his defense dipped by quite a bit. In the last year of his contract, he aims to enhance his defensive game.

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