As Thompson gets closer, he now ‘looks like himself ’
SAN FRANCISCO — Juan Toscano-Anderson first signed with the Warriors in September 2019, three months after Klay Thompson tore his ACL in the NBA Finals. But Toscano-Anderson is a lifelong fan of the team, born and raised in Oakland, so he understands Thompson’s place in Warriors lore.
Then, about two weeks ago, Toscano-Anderson got a first-hand look at why Thompson filled a pivotal role on three championship teams. Toscano-Anderson covered Thompson in a scrimmage and, well, he splashed more than a few shots.
“Internally, I was kind of embarrassed because he was scoring on me,” Toscano-Anderson said. “I thought, ‘This dude came off injury for over a year’ (actually more than two) … So he looks like he hasn’t lost a step. I’m really excited to see him back out there, as a fan and as his teammate.”
The Warriors still aren’t saying exactly when Thompson will return from his ACL and Achilles tendon injuries, though they’re eyeing a home game next month. Golden State’s first three games at Chase Center in the new year are Jan. 3 against Miami, Jan. 9 against Cleveland and Jan. 18 against Detroit (launching a sevengame homestand that includes the Rockets on Jan. 21).
Thompson clearly is getting closer. He played in a scrimmage with some teammates Tuesday and fully participated in Wednesday’s practice. Afterward, head coach Steve Kerr and two players — Toscano-Anderson and Kevon Looney — spoke at length about Thompson’s progress and their anticipation for his impending return.
“He’s really coming along well,” Kerr said.
Looney is one of four current Warriors players (along with Stephen Curry, Draymond Green and Andre Iguodala) who played alongside Thompson before his injuries — a torn ACL in June 2019 and torn right Achilles in November 2020.
Looney wasn’t involved in the scrimmage, but he has played with Thompson a few times in recent weeks. Thompson is still playing mostly in short bursts, trying to build up his conditioning after more than 30 months without playing in an NBA game.
“He looks like himself,” Looney said. “He’s getting closer and closer. He’s always going to shoot the ball well, but he seems really confident in his body and the way he’s moving. He’s going up for dunks, playing physical.
“When a guy is coming off an injury, and you see he has that much confidence, that means he’s getting really close. It’s exciting to see. He’s been a joy to have in practice, having his energy back.”
The Warriors obviously are eager for Thompson to return, but now they have a distinct need at his position. In the past week, three wing players — Jordan Poole, Andrew Wiggins and Damion Lee — have entered the league’s health and safety protocols.
Plus, Iguodala missed Wednesday’s practice with swelling in his troublesome right knee and did not play Thursday night against Memphis.
So even if Thompson does not immediately play like the old Klay — and that would be an unrealistic expectation, given his long absence — he will help. And his teammates expect an emotional boost to see him play in a game.
Toscano-Anderson was asked what the crowd roar might be like when Thompson finally takes the court again.
“It will be one of those big moments, like him scoring 37 points in a quarter or Steph hitting a game-winner,” Toscano-Anderson said. “Obviously, he’s beloved by Warriors fans and the entire Bay Area. Klay’s a legend here, and that’s coming from a true hometown kid.
“I can only imagine what it’s going to be like from the fans. I’m excited to see him back out there and just experience that moment. That’s what sports are about, right? I know he’ll get a standing ovation, but I hope it’s for three or four minutes. He deserves that.”