Golden State Warriors: Ranking the 5 most important players

By Tony Pesta | Oct 15, 2019

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 10: Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors looks on against the Minnesota Timberwolves during an NBA basketball game at Chase Center on October 10, 2019 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /

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(Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /

4. Klay Thompson

There is no doubt that Klay Thompson has been one of the most important players of the decade. Acting as the perfect Splash Brother to Stephen Curry, Thompson has carried the Golden State Warriors through some of their most vulnerable moments.

Had it not been for his devastating ACL injury in Game 6 of the 2019 NBA Finals, Thompson may have added another historic performance to his collection. Thompson had already totaled 30 points in just three quarters of playing time before being forced into the locker room.

Now, Thompson will watch from the sideline for the majority of the season as the Warriors desperately look to fill his void. The Dubs will never replace the 3-point shooting and perimeter defense that Thompson is able to provide, making his impending return an important issue.

Last season, Thompson averaged 21.5 points per game on 40.2 percent shooting from deep. His elite marksmanship plays a pivotal role in keeping the floor spaced for the Warriors.

To be blunt, the Warriors are not winning a title without Thompson. It is crucial that the five-time All-Star makes a full recovery and is back in the rotation before the playoffs begin. If he fails to make a successful return, the Warriors will be in jeopardy of being eliminated early in the postseason.

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