Steve Kerr expresses concern regarding Klay Thompson’s handling of a bad shooting stretch: “Makes him prone to beating himself up a little bit”
Steve Kerr cut a concerned figure when talking about Klay Thompson's handling of his shooting struggles early in the season. Thompson hasn't been able to play to his potential through the first couple of weeks of the season. He played only one preseason game.
Additionally, the Golden State Warriors have been careful with his minutes, as this is his first full season in three years. Here's what Kerr said about Thompson's state of mind throughout this phase during an appearance on 95.7 The Game's "Damian and Ratto" show:
“I think Klay is really an amazing human being and just a wonderful teammate and person. ... He cares so much and that makes him vulnerable in a good way. But it also makes him prone to beating himself up a little bit when he’s in a bad shooting stretch.”
Kerr on Klay : “I think Klay is really an amazing human being and just a wonderful teammate and person... He cares so much and that makes him vulnerable in a good way. But it also makes him prone to beating himself up a little bit when he’s in a bad shooting stretch.” 🥺
Klay Thompson is averaging 13.3 points, 2.7 rebounds and 2.4 assists across seven appearances. Thompson has struggled with his shooting efficiency. He has made only 35.1% of his field goals, and 29.5% of his 3-point attempts.
When it comes to possessing the winning mentality, Thompson is right up there in that regard. The Warriors' 3-5 start could also be weighing on his shoulders during this start, along with his lack of form.
Thompson has been crucial to the Warriors doing well. He is aware of his importance to the team, which may have seen him be a little harsh on himself throughout this period.
Steve Kerr confident Klay Thompson will bounce back soon
Steve Kerr doesn't seem worried about Klay Thompson's rough start to the season. The four-time championship-winning coach believes Thompson will only get better from here on. Kerr stated that the sharpshooting guard had many difficult starts in previous seasons.
Here's what Kerr said on the "Damion and Ratto" show:
"He's gonna get better from here, we know that. The bottom line is if we were 6-2 right now, this wouldn't even be a discussion, we're 3-5. So, at 3-5, all these things come up.
"I've seen Klay have so many slow starts to seasons. I know Klay well, he's much deeper and reflective than anybody would guess."
Steve Kerr is confident that Klay Thompson will be a huge contributor for the Warriors this season 💦 https://t.co/3V37sw0zCd
Klay Thompson also struggled after making his season debut last year. Players like him need a good game or two to get going. The Warriors know that after several years of partnership with Thompson. It has resulted in them showing confidence in the 32-year-old and backing him through this tough run.
The Warriors will be hoping Thompson rediscovers his mojo soon. They are off to a losing start and will need a player of his caliber firing on all cylinders to get back on track.