Warriors provide clearest update on Klay Thompson’s return yet

In what seems to have been a whirlwind of speculation, the Golden State Warriors have shared the clearest revelation of when star guard Klay Thompson could return to the court.

The Golden State Warriors sharpshooter Klay Thompson has not played in an NBA game in over two years and for the Golden State Warriors, having him back will be an immense boost to what they are able to accomplish on the court. However, as revealed today, Thompson’s return to action may not be until after New Year’s Day.

During today’s media day, Warriors general manager Bob Myers disclosed that there would be a “slow ramp-up” to Thompson’s return and mentioned that January was a relative target month to get the five-time All-Star back.

Last week, the Warriors released a medical report that confirmed that Thompson had made steady progress on his rehabilitation and was on pace to return at some point during the season.

Although the report stated that the guard is expected to participate in controlled drills during training camp, Myers comments Monday frame that Thompson likely isn’t close to being ready for the start of the season.

Warriors: Klay Thompson injury update

Thompson went down with an ACL tear on June 19, 2019, in an NBA Finals Game 6 against the Toronto Raptors — he was held out of the 2019-2020 season. Amidst his year-long recovery, he sustained an Achilles injury that kept him out for the entire 2020-2021 season.

While Warriors’ brass says he likely won’t get back until the wintertime, Thompson, himself says that he anticipates getting back to 5-on-5s within the next month.

“I can make a lot of jump shots. Pretty good at defensive sliding,” Thompson said when asked what he was capable of on the court.” My timing is a little off. Reaction time’s not there. That’s being rusty two years. I anticipate in the next four weeks playing 5-on-5 again.”

While the Warriors were able to contend for a playoff spot last season, the anticipated return of Thompson could vault them over the hump and closer to their goal of contending for the NBA title again.