Golden State Warriors: 5 Things Klay Thompson Needs To Work On

4. Get On The Line

May 12, 2013; Oakland, CA, USA; Golden State Warriors shooting guard Klay Thompson (11, top right) shoots the ball against the San Antonio Spurs during the third quarter in game four of the second round of the 2013 NBA Playoffs at Oracle Arena. The Warriors defeated the Spurs 97-87 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

What is the main difference between Thompson and arguably the best shooting guard in the game currently? If you looked at James Harden’s stat sheet right now, he has attempted nearly six times the amount of free throws–792 to 157.

If Thompson wants to expand his game past a three-and-defense role player, he needs to learn how to drive to the hoop. The basis for the whole Eric Gordon trade was that Golden State needed a guard who could slash his way to the hoop and either get fouled, make the lay up or kick it out to someone, namely Stephen Curry.

Well, clearly we can’t expect much from lay-ups, but Thompson demonstrated his ability to handle the ball well, only committing two turnovers per game, and he showed that he could drive to the hoop. What he needs to do next is learn how to draw the contact to get on the line.

Thompson has already shown that he is a capable on-ball defender and lights-out shooter. Now, he just needs to show that he can slash and kick his way to points, assists or free throws.