The Warriors have dealt with their fair share of on-court struggles this season, but their off-court camaraderie remains intact.
Following their impressive road win over the Sixers Wednesday night, the Warriors celebrated the 34th birthday of Klay Thompson on the team plane, a video of which Thompson shared via social media. In the video, Draymond Green could be seen singing the Happy Birthday song while leading the rookie choir of Trayce Jackson-Davis, Brandin Podziemski, Gui Santos and Lester Quinones.
The Warriors sing happy birthday to Klay on the plane
— Warriors on NBCS (@NBCSWarriors) February 8, 2024
[via @KlayThompson IG] pic.twitter.com/z7FA0Fdxdp
On the court, the past few months have proven to be a tough stretch for Thompson, who's in the middle of his worst statistical season since 2012-13. Besides averaging 17.1 points at a career-low 41 percent from the field, Thompson's perimeter defense -- previously his strong suit -- has regressed at an alarming rate to the point where coach Steve Kerr has routinely pulled him out of games in the fourth quarter.
With Thompson entering free agency this summer, there's been widespread chatter of Warriors testing his trade value ahead of Thursday's 3 p.m. ET deadline. Yet, the future Hall of Famer seemed unperturbed by all the noise while addressing the media Wednesday night.
"I don’t really partake in NBA discourse," Thompson said, via The Athletic's Anthony Slater. "I think that’s such a waste of energy, and at the end of the day, whether I’m wearing a Dubs uniform or another uniform, I’m gonna be myself."
Thompson also warned the league to underestimate the 11th-seeded Warriors at their own peril.
-On his desire to be with the Warriors long term: "That is correct. Good assessment."
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) February 8, 2024
-On his belief in this team: "I see Steph Curry. I see Draymond. I go home and check our playoff record." pic.twitter.com/tMe2IH5MCy
Could the Warriors do the unthinkable and break up the winningest trio in NBA Finals history? According to several insiders, Andrew Wiggins and Chris Paul are more likely to be shipped before Thursday's deadline, and their front office won't trade Thompson unless Stephen Curry green-lights such a move.
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