OAKLAND – The shooting has become so easy that Klay Thompson has admitted that he can operate on “autopilot.” So in a way to sharpen his craft and avoid complacency, Thompson has articulated a goal that does not have to do with making a basket.
“I’m trying to average one block a game for a shooting guard. That will be really good,” Thompson said. “That would be really nice. If I get a block a game and play stalwart defense on whomever I’m guarding, I’ll be satisfied.”
Don’t look now, but Thompson has already shown promise in reaching that goal.
The Warriors (7-3) enter Monday’s game against the Miami Heat (4-5) at the Oracle with Thompson averaging a career-high .9 blocks per contest, which is tied for second among NBA shooting guards. Thompson is tied with Portand’s Evan Turner, and trails only behind San Antonio’s Danny Green (one block per game).
Thompson’s most memorable defensive moment thus far entailed stuffing San Antonio forward LaMarcus Aldridge at the rim. But Thompson also recorded two blocks in games against Houston and Washington.
Thompson’s offensive numbers remain more impressive, no doubt. He has averaged 21.5 points, while shooting 52.5 percent from the field and 46.1 percent from 3-point range. On Monday, Thompson attributed those numbers to continued familiarity with his teammates in his fourth season under coach Steve Kerr. Warriors guard Stephen Curry also praised Thompson for his counter-adjustments against opponents that have tried to limit his catch-and-shoot opportunities.
Thompson has also prided himself as a two-way player, though, that defends the opposing team’s best scorer. That focus, Thompson argued, also fuels his offense “every night.”
“When you get stops in transition, you can get those transition 3’s,” Thompson said. “That’s where I make my living.”
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