For the first time in the 2020-21 season, the Golden State Warriors welcomed a familiar face on the bench.
After tearing Achilles apart in late November, Klay Thompson appeared at the Chase Center tilt for Golden State against the Indiana Pacers. The injured shooting guard sat behind his teammates on the bench for the game.
Via @BleacherReport on Twitter:
Prior to tipoff, Steve Kerr told members of the media that Thompson has been around the Golden State facility recently. The Warriors head coach was hoping to see the five-time All-Star.
I haven’t seen it yet, but it’s been around for the last two days. He got his test done and he has come into the facility and seen some of the people. And come in to see the training staff, but we haven’t crossed paths yet. I hope to see you tonight.
Listen to the full Kerr pregame preview through SoundCloud Warriors.
While he recovered from his ACL injury during the 2019-20 season, Thompson was occasionally on the Warriors bench. The 30-year-old guard traveled even with the crew at times. However, Kerr said it is doubtful that Thompson will attend any of the upcoming road trips at Golden State.
After stopping a seven-game homestand with a contest against Indiana on Tuesday, the Warriors will campaign outside the Bay Area for three consecutive stops. Thompson’s next opportunity to join the Warriors on the bench is Jan. 20 against the San Antonio Spurs.