Steve Kerr of the Warriors discloses Klay Thompson and Brandin Podziemski’s final lineup.

For many years, Klay Thompson has served as the Golden State Warriors’ “closer” as they attempt to win four NBA titles under head coach Steve Kerr. Thompson is currently being benched in favor of a rookie who has outperformed him in crucial situations.

Fans anxiously await the close of the trade deadline on February 8 as the Warriors’ season progresses.

With the deadline just a few days away, a Western Conference rival is reportedly keeping an eye on a star forward for the Warriors. In the midst of Jonathan Kuminga’s explosive ascent to prominence as the team’s new go-to player, Kerr talked highly of the rookie forward.

In a press conference on Saturday, Kerr received criticism for his late-game lineup selections and the tough choices he’s recently had to make.

Kerr Discusses Thompson and Podziemski’s Late Game Roles
Late in games, Kerr and the Warriors have chosen to start a younger lineup, with Polish-American Podziemski starting in Thompson’s stead.

Benching NBA players who rank in the top 75 all-time  member Thompson in favor of the youngster, but Kerr stated that as long as it benefits the Warriors, he won’t think twice about doing so.

Before their matchup with the Atlanta Hawks on Saturday night in Georgia, the Warriors held their position as the 12th-place team in the Western Conference.

The Dallas Mavericks are 3.5 games ahead of the Dubs for the eighth seed in the Western Conference. Throughout the season, their starting lineup has changed, but Kerr and the Warriors now seem to be getting settled in.

In an exciting and unpredictable Western Conference, only time will tell if it’s enough to reclaim a postseason position, but for now, Kerr and the Warriors seem to be benefiting from a youthful infusion.