HIGHLIGHT: Klay Thompson conveys a message to Steph Curry, who is injured, following the Warriors’ defeat against the Bulls.

After suffering a devastating 125-122 loss to the Chicago Bulls at Chase Center on Thursday, March 7, due to an ankle injury, the Golden State Warriors find themselves grappling with the absence of Steph Curry.

Expressing concern for Curry’s well-being, Klay Thompson addressed reporters, acknowledging the team’s reliance on collective effort during Curry’s potential absence. Thompson highlighted their past experiences coping without Curry and expressed confidence in Curry’s eventual return.

Curry’s departure occurred with just 3:51 remaining in the fourth quarter, leaving Thompson to lead the team’s offensive charge. Despite Thompson’s valiant efforts, highlighted by a crucial 3-pointer late in the game, the Bulls ultimately secured victory, capitalizing on a pivotal 3-point play by DeMar DeRozan.

Vintage Klay Thompson Needed

With no immediate update on Curry’s condition from coach Steve Kerr, the Warriors face the possibility of having to lean heavily on Thompson’s scoring prowess in Curry’s absence. Thompson, who contributed 25 points off the bench, emphasized maintaining his individual style of play, whether starting or coming off the bench, to support the team’s success.

In previous games off the bench this season, Thompson has maintained a solid average of 18.8 points on 43.4% shooting from beyond the arc, contrasting with his starter statistics of 16.7 points on 36.9% 3-point shooting. As the Warriors navigate a challenging playoff race, currently tied with the Los Angeles Lakers for 9th place in the Western Conference, Thompson’s ability to channel his vintage performance becomes crucial. Both teams find themselves trailing the top six teams by 3.5 games, heightening the intensity of the playoff race.

Weary Warriors

The Golden State Warriors appeared fatigued during the second night of back-to-back games at home, following their impressive 125-90 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks the previous night.

Steph Curry’s performance mirrored the team’s sluggish start, as he struggled with his shooting, missing six of his first seven attempts. By halftime, he had only accumulated five points, with the Warriors trailing the Bulls 63-59. Ultimately, Curry finished the game shooting 5 of 18 from the field before exiting due to his ankle injury.

Coach Kerr attributed their lackluster performance to a shortage of energy, noting deficiencies in defensive pressure and rotations. Despite acknowledging the team’s effort and execution, Kerr admitted they were simply outplayed by the Bulls.

Alder Almo is a seasoned basketball journalist specializing in coverage of the New York Knicks, Los Angeles Lakers, and Golden State Warriors for Heavy. With over 15 years of experience in various forms of media, including broadcast, print, and digital platforms, Almo brings a wealth of expertise to his reporting. Prior to his work with Heavy, he covered the Knicks for Empire Sports Media and provided NBA coverage for Off the Glass. Originally from the Philippines, Almo is currently based in Jersey City, New Jersey.