With 32 points from Klay Thompson, the Golden State Warriors easily defeated the Utah Jazz on Sunday night, winning 118-110.
Prior to the game, the Warriors secured a spot in the four-team play-in round when Houston was defeated 147-136 in overtime by Dallas.
After Chris Paul started in place of Stephen Curry because he needed a night of rest, Thompson came out seeking for his shot to carry the majority of the scoring load.
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This was the 26th starting lineup configuration of the season for head coach Steve Kerr. Curry has several days between games thanks to the break. Playing in 71 games so far is a record for him since 2016–17.
Coach Steve Kerr described the 36-year-old two-time MVP as someone who “needed it,” noting that this is the most games the player has played in a while. “It will be very helpful for him next week.”
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.= The Jazz suffered their 12th straight loss and their 15th in a row as reserve Johnny Juzang led them with a career-high 27 points and seven three-pointers. At Golden State, they haven’t triumphed since February 9, 2022. 25 points were added by Keyonte George.
Thompson scored 25 points by halftime, finishing the first two quarters of the season with at least 25 points since going for 33 against the Suns on March 13, 2023. ‘
Thompson shot 12 for 23 with six 3-pointers.Golden State made 8 of 12 3-pointers in the first quarter to grab a 41-28 lead, the third time the Warriors have scored 40 points or more in the first quarter. Thompson made seven of his ten attempts, including four 3-pointers.
After missing six games due to tendinitis in both knees, Jonathan Kuminga made his comeback, scoring 21 points and grabbing 10 rebounds in his sixth consecutive 20-point performance as a substitute. That was tied with Sarunas Marciulionis for the most such games in the history of the Warriors since starters started to be registered in 1977–1978.
Finishing with 16 points, seven rebounds, and six assists, Brandin Podziemski had his 17th game with at least 10 points, five rebounds, and five assists – second among rookies.
Due to left ankle pain, forward Andrew Wiggins was also out for the second straight game for the Warriors.
The Jazz and Golden State will play one final game at Chase Center on Sunday to wrap out the regular season. Golden State has won all three of their meetings with the Jazz this year and four in a row overall.