2 winners and 2 losers from the Golden State Warriors final preseason game

1. Klay Thompson

After a 2-10 shooting performance against the Kings on Wednesday, things were looking up for Klay Thompson when he made three of his four shots in the opening period against the Spurs.

That included a wing jumper on the opening possession as the 33-year-old record nine points in a start full of optimism. Unfortunately that was literally it though, with Thompson missing his last nine shots to finish 3-13 shooting including just 1-8 from three-point range.

The five-time All-Star is the biggest individual concern of the preseason, having shot less than 30% from the floor over the five games. While he’s got enough credits in the bank to hold optimism in a quick return to form, a slow start to the regular season could see pressure rise on Thompson in regard to his role and minutes in the rotation.

2. Rodney McGruder and Rudy Gay

Getting waived immediately after a game is never positive, and that was the case for training camp invitees Rudy Gay and Rodney McGruder. The pair were seen as the final two battling for the franchise’s vacant roster spot, but ultimately the Warriors saw neither as worthy of signing.

Gay was seen as the lead candidate over the past few weeks, yet played only 15 total minutes in the opening two preseason games and none at all in the final three. The 37-year-old’s future now hangs in the balance again as he seeks to play an 18th season in the league.

McGruder’s chances weren’t helped by concussion, with the 6’4″ wing ruled out of the preseason until Friday’s game against the Spurs. Steve Kerr did afford the 32-year-old opportunity, with McGruder recording eight points and five rebounds on 3-9 shooting in 20 minutes of action.

Golden State will retain just 13 players on the main roster ahead of Tuesday night’s season opener against the Phoenix Suns.