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Why Klay Thompson means so much to the Golden State Warriors

By Nathan Beighle

OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 07: Klay Thompson #11 of the Golden State Warriors celebrates against the Toronto Raptors in the first half during Game Four of the 2019 NBA Finals at ORACLE Arena on June 07, 2019 in Oakland, 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 Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images)
OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 07: Klay Thompson #11 of the Golden State Warriors celebrates against the Toronto Raptors in the first half during Game Four of the 2019 NBA Finals at ORACLE Arena on June 07, 2019 in Oakland, 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 Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images) /
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It goes without saying that every Golden State Warriors fan is thrilled at the thought of having five-time All-Star guard Klay Thompson back on the court.

Thompson is set to make his season debut later today as the Warriors host the Cleveland Cavaliers, one of the best defenses in the league. Thompson has had two season-ending injuries since last taking the court in 2019.

The Golden State Warriors fans should be ecstatic about Klay Thompson’s return as he’s one of the Big 3 that made their resurrection as a franchise possible.

It’s not been an easy road back for the star guard. Two lengthy rehabs likely brought thoughts of whether or not making this return was feasible. However, he clearly battled to get back to being ready to take the court.

Thompson is far more than just a star guard that’ll be playing for the first time in a few seasons. He’s been an absolute cornerstone of this franchise for the past decade.

After being taken 11th overall in the 2011 NBA Draft, Thompson came off the bench and averaged 12.5 points per game as a rookie. His potential was quickly realized as Thompson took over the starting role for the Warriors.

In his fourth season in the NBA, Thompson helped lead the Warriors to their first of three titles. He earned his first All-Star appearance, and averaging over 21 points per game, cemented himself as one of the best shooters in the league.

Having averaged over 40% from deep in each of his eight seasons, Thompson has remained one of the best shooters in the league. There have been few players in the Warriors franchise history that have meant more to the fanbase than Klay Thompson.

With that in mind, this is obviously not any normal return.

It’s the return of a legend that’s been through so much to get back on the court. That’s what will make Sunday evening such a special time for both Thompson and the Dubs fanbase, one extremely grateful for the ride he’s helped this team be on the first past decade.

Next. Top 30 Golden State Warriors players in franchise history. dark

That said, tip-off is expected at 8:30 p.m. ET.

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