Klay Thompson was ejected for the first time in his career after getting into an altercation with Devin Booker of the Phoenix Suns.
The bickering between Thompson and Booker began in the third quarter, when Thompson stripped Booker of the ball while Booker attempted a step-back three-pointer and knocked the ball out of bounds. The conversation between Booker and Thompson continued down the court and through the break.
After shoving Booker and coming face-to-face with the Suns’ star, Thompson was given two technicals in quick succession.
After the game, which the Suns won 134-105, Booker stated that Thompson repeatedly stated that he had won four titles while Booker has not.
Booker told reporters, “They have four rings, repeated over and over again, and they do, and they did.”
Booker stated that the conflict was not personal and that he likes Thompson.
Booker stated, “There are just two of us.” “I absolutely adore Klay Thompson. Since a very long time ago However, this will not prevent us from being competitive and communicating with one another. I have always appreciated his ability to play on both sides of the ball. The rings definitely speak for themselves.”
Stephen Curry, for his part, commended Thompson for his fiery disposition.
Curry stated, “After he was expelled, he had much more to say, which I adore.” “The back and forth is a part of [the game], and I appreciate that he cares about it in that regard.”
Alone in the third quarter, seven technical fouls were issued in what was an extremely passionate game.
Thompson may have been somewhat bothered by his own problems, as he shot 1-of-8 over the course of 19 minutes. He is shooting 35.6% from the field and 28.6% from three in limited minutes to open the season, a precaution as Thompson continues to recover from injuries that sidelined him two seasons. Thompson complained to media prior to the game about the restrictions.
Kerr complimented Thompson’s energy after the game and stated that he has a long way to go.
“Klay is so concerned with his own impact on the team,” added Kerr. “He is attempting to force it right now because he wants it so badly. He is attempting too hard. However, he has done it numerous times before his injury. So I will tell him that there are 78 games remaining.”