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[Saba Sports News] Klay Thompson, the Golden State Warriors’ esteemed shooting guard, faced a poignant moment of realization about his current level of play when he was bened for the crucial final minutes of a game against the Brooklyn Nets.
Despite the Warriors’ victory at Barclays Center, Thompson’s substitution by rookie Gui Santos for the last 7:19 was a significant marker of his changing role on the team. Speaking post-game, Thompson acknowledged the physical ease but admitted to struggling with the mental challenge of adapting to a lesser role, highlighting the difficulty of adjusting from being one of the top players.
“I feel great, physically. Mentally, probably a little different story,” admitted Thompson. “But such is life, you know? … Yeah, you kidding me? To go from one of the best players … It’s hard for anybody. I’ll be honest with you.”
On Monday, Thompson contributed 8 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 steals in 30 minutes, while Santos, the 21-year-old Brazilian rookie, added 9 points and 5 rebounds in 18 minutes. Coach Steve Kerr’s ongoing lineup adjustments, particularly during crucial game moments, reflect this transition, as Thompson’s scoring average remains high despite hitting personal lows in shooting efficiency.