Klay explodes in the 4th, Warriors hold off Lakers for win

San Francisco – Klay Thompson exploded in the fourth and the Warriors snapped their two-game losing streak. Thompson scored a career-high 33 points and had 16 in the fourth quarter to hold off the Los Angeles Lakers for the 117-115 win.  

“Phenomenal. He just took over the game. Klay got hot in the 4th,” said Steve Kerr. 

It wasn’t a tough decision in keeping him at the 30 minute mark. We know we need him for the long haul, so we’re going to take him out. All in all it worked out.”

Thompson played 30 minutes, scored 33 points and had 5 rebounds. He went 5-for-9 from the arc. Thompson played his best game since returning from his injuries that kept him out for two years. His 16 points in the 4th quarter not only kept Golden State in the game but helped stave off the lakers for the thrilling win at home.

After losing the last two games, the Warriors looked tired and ready to head into their break. But unfortunately, they have two games left before the first half of the season ends. But it was a good home win tonight, especially for Thompson who is still adjusting to playing more minutes. 

“I feel loser than I did the first five games, that was an adjustment period for me,” Thompson said. 

It’s easier to get a better rhythm (playing 30 minutes plus). I’m in better shape than I was a few weeks ago. And on top of that I’m just grateful to play that many minutes.”

“We’re a lucky bunch to have NO. 11 back, for sure,” said Stephen Curry. “I love watching the show. It was awesome… special 12 minutes for sure.”

The Lakers stayed close behind but took the lead in the fourth. LeBron James had 26 points, 15 rebounds and 8 assists. Austin Reaves added 13 points and two blocks, he made a crucial block from behind on Thompson’s potential layup in the fourth. 

In the final seconds of the game, James was fouled by Curry at the arc. He missed a 3-point shot that sent him to the line. James missed the first shot and made the second making it a 117-115 game. He lobbed the third shot toward the basket and tried to get the rebound. Otto Porter Jr knocked the ball away from the basket and James got the ball but the clock had run out to end the game.

Jonathan Kuminga had 18 points, 9 renounds and shot 8-for-11 from the field. His presence was felt early and he did a great job defending James. Kuminga played well on both sides of the court, had 16 points on -7-of-8 shooting in the first half.

“Jonathan was our best player for the first three quarters,” Kerr said.

NEXT: The Warriors are on the road to play the Los Angeles Clippers Monday.

Photo by Warriors/Twitter

Malaika Bobino

Malaika Bobino, an Oakland, California native, is a Bay Area sports journalism powerhouse and influencer. With nearly two decades of experience at both the Oakland Post and the Huffington Post, she is always on the front lines of the iconic Bay Area sports scene. Bobino covered the Oakland A’s postseason trips, all three of the San Francisco Giants World Series, was present for all three Golden State Warriors three NBA Championships and covered the 49ers last two Super Bowl appearances

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