3 Reasons Klay Thompson is hurting the Golden State Warriors

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - MAY 18: Klay Thompson #11 of the Golden State Warriors warms up prior to Game One against the Dallas Mavericks in the 2022 NBA Playoffs Western Conference Finals at Chase Center on May 18, 2022 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)
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - MAY 18: Klay Thompson #11 of the Golden State Warriors warms up prior to Game One against the Dallas Mavericks in the 2022 NBA Playoffs Western Conference Finals at Chase Center on May 18, 2022 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)
(Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /

Klay Thompson has long been one of the Golden State Warriors‘ best assets but his first postseason back from injury has left some questions regarding his status with the team.

It’s understandable that Thompson would struggle with consistency in his return to the court after nearly three years on the sideline. Even now, it’s important to remember Klay has only been near full strength for just a few months.

The Golden State Warriors have oddly played better when Klay Thompson is on the bench this postseason. What is causing this?

With this context in mind, let’s take a look at how the Warriors have faired with and without Klay on the court during the 2022 NBA Playoffs.

Golden State Warriors with Klay Thompson on (off) court

  • OFF RTNG: 113.1 (112.6)
  • DEF RTNG: 113.4 (97.6)
  • NET RTNG: -0.3 (+15.0)

Two things jump off the page. The Warriors are playing significantly better defense without Thompson and their overall net rating shoots through the roof when he is on the bench. Why is this?

Today, we look at how the Warriors have played better without Thompson — and why Klay is still one of the best and most important members of the team.