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Klay Thompson‘s shooting struggles continued in Game 1 of the NBA Finals against the Cleveland Cavaliers, scoring only six points and going a measly 3-of-16 from the field and failing to hit a three for the second time these playoffs or get to the free-throw line for the fourth time in the postseason.
The sharpshooter's woes have been underwhelming and to some, a reason for real worry — forcing the Golden State Warriors to be utterly reliant on the firepower from the winners of the last three MVP trophies — Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant.
Thompson isn't worried about his pedestrian shooting so far, claiming that if it does enough to get the end result, it won't be much difference.
“If I could score six points a game and it gets us four wins and an NBA chip, I can do that every year,” he told Monte Poole of NBC Sports Bay Area.
His words are both true and concerning at the same time, as Golden State will need him to come alive as he did in Game 6 of the Western Conference Finals last year, pouring in a playoff-record 11 three-pointers on his way to a game-high 41 points against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Curry and Durant have had a torrid run this postseason, but they're bound to have an off shooting night — bringing up the need for Thompson's flamethrower to come aflame and be that first or second scoring option in the game.
His defense hasn't faltered despite the evident lack of confidence in his shot — and it wasn't more evident than during Thursday's Game 1, when he limited the Cavs to 1-of-12 from the field when he was the primary defender.
Thompson had played a mixed role, picking up Kyrie Irving as his primary assignment, but occasionally being forced to switch to Kevin Love and LeBron James on closeouts or mismatches, which he's appeared to do with the utmost discipline.
While most players use their offense to fuel their effort on defense, Klay Thompson's mettle at the defensive end hasn't taken a slight hit, being every bit of the two-way player he's been asked to be and giving out a great effort staying in front of his man.
