The one-year anniversary of Klay Thompson's return to the court after subsequent ACL and Achilles injuries is on Monday. As a result, there has been plenty of reflection regarding how the last 12 months have gone for the Warriors' star.
Warriors coach Steve Kerr appeared on 95.7 The Game's "Damon & Ratto" on Friday, where he discussed Thompson's journey since returning to the court. There have been peaks and valleys in the 32-year-old's attempt to return to pre-injury form.
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"It was just insane what he had to endure," Kerr said. "And it's just wonderful to see him enjoying himself. He looks more relaxed now than he did earlier in the season.
"I think he's found a good perspective where he's appreciating his opportunity to play and to just enjoy being part of the team and enjoy the fact that there's a small window in your life as a professional athlete relative to your life, your lifespan. I mean, 10-15 years, whatever it is. This is a time that Klay absolutely should be enjoying, and I'm really happy to see him doing so now."
While many will share behind the scene stories of the work Thompson has put in to get back to playing at a high level, there was a momentary scare for Dub Nation.
The veteran was a late scratch from the Warriors' game against the Orlando Magic at Chase Center on Saturday. However, Kerr spoke after the 115-101 loss and calmed any concerns Warriors fans might have had.
Golden State Warriors
"You're talking about a guy who's had two major injuries in the last few years, so stuff like this happens," Kerr told reporters. "You get a little bit older and you've suffered some injuries, you're more susceptible to aches and pains. So just something we have to deal with."
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Thompson's recent performances might indicate that he's turning the corner and playing at a level many expect from him. The Splash Brother is averaging 33.6 points per game in his last five games.