Attention Cleveland, no need to start celebrating the odds evening out a little bit just yet. It looks as though the Golden State Warriors starting five will be completely intact come Game 2.
Klay Thompson isn't just planning on playing in Game 2 of the 2018 NBA Finals, he's optimistic. He revealed these sentiments and more while talking to the media, first reported by Marc J. Spears of The Undefeated.
Warriors guard Klay Thompson (ankle) says he is optimistic he will play in Game 2, "I'm going to do what I possibly can to play." He added that the under cut accidental slip from Cavs guard JR Smith on the play in which he hurt his ankle wasn't intentional but it "pissed me off."
— Marc J. Spears (@MarcJSpears) June 2, 2018
"I'm optimistic about tomorrow."
Klay Thompson on his injury.#GameTime | #NBAFinals pic.twitter.com/kRgOuQw2dj
— NBA TV (@NBATV) June 2, 2018




Thompson, 28, is a four-time NBA All-Star who found himself injured on a first-half play in Game 1. He and Cleveland Cavaliers swingman J.R. Smith came together in a collision that saw Thompson leave the court and head back into the locker room with what was initially called bruising. It turns out he suffered a high-ankle sprain along with serious contusions.
On Saturday, it was Shams Charania of Yahoo! Sports who first reported that Thompson is “striving to play” in Game 2.
While his status is still officially in doubt, it's important to note that the Dubs sharpshooter did return to action in Game 1 in collecting 24 points in 45 minutes after suffering the injury.
In 73 games this past regular season, Thompson put forth 19.2 points, 2.3 assists and 3.4 rebounds per game while playing excellent defense alongside his superstar teammates.