Klay Thompson is set to return to the Chase Center on Thursday, the venue where he helped establish the Golden State Warriors' dynasty. Now in his second team since his departure from the Warriors, the experience of facing his former teammates has become less jarring.
Warriors head coach Steve Kerr acknowledged the initial strangeness of seeing Thompson in a different uniform. "It'll always be a little strange seeing [him] in a different uniform. But it's getting a little less strange," Kerr said. "Those first couple times were really bizarre. And then you get used to it. It's a reminder that most of us in the NBA end up on multiple teams."
Thompson spent 13 seasons with the Warriors, securing four championships and overcoming significant injuries. Despite his deep connection with the Bay Area and its fans, his tenure with Golden State concluded when contract negotiations did not align with his desire for a larger role and increased compensation as he entered the latter stages of his career.
His departure was not marked by acrimony. Prior to the season, teammate Stephen Curry expressed his sentiment, stating, "I miss that dude everyday." However, this does not diminish Thompson's competitive drive when facing his former team. Thompson stated, "I want to beat them bad. We’re all still very competitive in our mid-30s and I love to go compete against them because they’re some of my best friends."
The Miami Heat, Thompson's current team, has started the season with a 2-5 record. In a recent game against the Los Angeles Lakers, Thompson scored 19 points, signaling a potential increase in his offensive performance. After a slow start to the season, where he struggled with his three-point shooting, Thompson has recently improved, making 11 of 19 three-point attempts over his last two games.
Thompson has started all seven of Miami's games this season, averaging 11.9 points in 21.9 minutes. He is one of two former Warriors starters on the Heat's current roster, alongside Andrew Wiggins.
Wiggins, who was traded to Miami in a deal that sent Jimmy Butler to Golden State, has also experienced mixed results. He is averaging a career-low 10.3 points per game this season. In his previous three matchups against the Warriors, Wiggins has not scored more than 18 points. Thompson, in contrast, scored 22 and 29 points in his first two games back against Golden State, though his average against them has decreased in subsequent meetings.
Kerr expressed his anticipation for seeing both Thompson and Wiggins. "It’ll be great to see both guys — Klay and Wiggs. Two just incredible contributors to the Warriors championships, to the culture, just the vibe of the team. Both Klay and Wiggs are wonderful human beings and great teammates. It’ll be good to see them," he said.
Following Thursday's game in San Francisco, the Heat will travel to Sacramento to play the Kings on Sunday. The team plans to remain in the Bay Area during this period, allowing Thompson and Wiggins ample time to reconnect with their former teammates and the city.