The Golden State Warrior players not only play together but also understand each other. Injuries, which are a part of the beautiful game, are endured by many players during their course on the court. Damion Lee and Klay Thompson are both parts of this unforgettable experience.
In 2013 and 2016, Damion Lee had torn his right ACL and left ACL respectively. Klay Thompson, on the other hand, tore his left ACL during Game 6 against the Toronto Raptors. This was the 2019 NBA finals following which he had to sit out of the entire 2019-20 season.
Damion Lee open’s up about injury struggles
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Lee, having been in the same position twice before, knows exactly how Thompson feels. Lee opened up about this on the “Runnin’ Plays” podcast with Kerith Burke and Grant Liffmann. “[Klay and I have] had several conversations before about rehab in regards to the ACL,”.
He also says that Klay would often ask him about how he coped up with his injuries. “He’d always joke, ‘Damn, D-Lee. I don’t know how you did this twice because this is a lot.”
What to expect from Klay Thompson?
Questions like what should one expect from Klay Thompson’s comeback in 2020-21 season were put across to Lee.
“I feel like he wants to show people that he is the best two-way guard in the league,” Lee said. “He’s done it before. He’s in a pretty good mind space. I think he’s just ready to go out there and play.” says Lee
It was noticed that despite not being much available last season, Klay’s presence was still very much perceptible.
“There were a lot of times where he’d just pull younger guys aside and give guys little tidbits,” Lee explained. “It’s unique to see. Everyone is so used to seeing Klay being quiet or reserved. Hearing him actually speak up and talk and give some input is huge.
“That’s a huge step — not only for him but the team and a lot of the younger guys seeing him as a big brother and as an influence.“
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Finally, Damion also expressed that Klay is very much looking forward to playing after this.
“It’s cool to see what he’s been through and now wanting to come back and go all out.“
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You can catch the podcast from the link below: