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Klay Thompson Leads Warriors to Victory Over Jazz with Stellar 32-Point Performance
Klay Thompson quickly found his rhythm offensively, delivering even on the most challenging shots against tight defense.
Thompson’s 32 points propelled the Golden State Warriors to an early lead and ultimately a 118-110 win over the depleted Utah Jazz on Sunday night.
“Klay’s shot-making really helped us get that lead,” praised Coach Steve Kerr.
The Warriors secured a spot in the play-in tournament for the playoffs before the game began, thanks to Houston’s overtime loss to Dallas, 147-136.
With a focus on continuing their winning streak, Kerr expressed optimism about the team’s chances for a deep playoff run despite potential challenges. “It’s going to be interesting, four games left and lots of possibilities,” he commented.
Thompson aggressively sought scoring opportunities from the start, shouldering the scoring responsibilities while Stephen Curry rested, and Chris Paul filled in. This change was part of the Warriors’ 26th different starting lineup of the season.
The rest period was beneficial for Curry, according to Kerr, especially since he has played in 71 games this season, his highest since the 2016-17 season. “He needed it, this is the most games he’s played in a long time. It’ll serve him well for next week,” Kerr noted.
Johnny Juzang led the Jazz with a personal best of 27 points, including seven 3-pointers, in their twelfth consecutive loss. Keyonte George contributed 25 points.
By halftime, Thompson had racked up 25 points, marking his highest-scoring half of the season and his first time reaching or surpassing 25 points in the first two quarters since a game against the Suns on March 13, 2023.
With efficient shooting, including six 3-pointers on 12 for 23 shooting, Thompson was a major force. Golden State hit 8 of its 12 three-point attempts in the first quarter, establishing a 41-28 lead — one of the three times the Warriors have scored 40 or more in the first period.
Jonathan Kuminga, returning from a six-game absence due to tendonitis in both knees, added 21 points and 10 rebounds off the bench.
This matched a franchise record for consecutive 20-point games as a reserve, tying with Sarunas Marciulionis since the 1977-78 season when starters began being recorded. “I was more concerned with going in there and impacting a win because a win is a win at the end of the day and playing my game,” Kuminga stated.
Brandin Podziemski, shining in his role, contributed 16 points, seven rebounds, and six assists, marking his 17th game achieving a stat line of at least 10 points, five rebounds, and five assists — a figure second among rookies.
Despite missing forward Andrew Wiggins due to left ankle soreness, the Warriors maintained their strong performance.
This season, they have beaten the Jazz in all three encounters and will meet once more at the Chase Center to wrap up the regular season.
The Warriors also highlight a record of 18-2 when they achieve 30 or more assists (32 on Sunday) and shoot at least 50% (53.3%).
Draymond Green was briefly checked for a back issue in the fourth quarter but was cleared to continue, Kerr confirmed.
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