Klay Thompson’s return to the NBA was nothing short of a celebration. The NBA icon had been sidelined since 2019, and his comeback was delayed due to severe consecutive injuries. Of course, Thompson’s return is as electric as one would assume, with the Splash Brother already having exchanged some words with Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant.

His performance has been better than most have expected, scoring an average of 15.5 points in two games. While the Warriors and Thompson managed to beat the Cleveland Cavaliers 96-82, they lost to the Grizzlies.

Klay Thompson on Ja Morant and the Memphis Grizzlies

As mentioned, Thompson has been gone since 2019. This game at the FedExForum was Thompson’s first game against Morant. Of course, fans considered this win for the Grizzlies the start of a new rivalry. If one was to aim higher, many even see the Grizzlies as the latest Warriors dynasty.

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With Stephen Curry, Thompson, and Draymond Green, the team ended up rising to dominance. With three titles and five straight NBA finals, the team was unrivaled. However, Kevin Durant left for the Brooklyn Warriors, and the Splash Brothers were sidelined during the 2019-20 season. The team was plagued with injuries, even affecting James Wiseman (knee).

Thompson had his own say on the Grizzlies side, which was spearheaded by Morant. “Umm. They’re a good team,” Thompson said. “Their record reflects that. But I don’t know, man. We’re pretty unique…We kind’ve changed the way the game was played”. 

Fans respond to the comparisons

For many Warriors fans, the Grizzlies could never really be the Dubs. “Why do they always ask that? Few teams will ever get close to prime 2015-2018 warriors,” wrote one fan. Another reminded them that despite their efforts and presence, the team lost their 73-9 record season.

“All I know is the griz ain’t to taken lightly, if the Dubs happens to meet them in the playoffs, it’s going 7,” wrote another user, with many fans agreeing that the teams might have a great playoffs showdown.

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Morant, in his third season, is averaging 24.9 points per game. They will face the Minnesota Timberwolves next, while the Warriors will play against the Milwaukee Bucks.