The Golden State Warriors clinched their 21st victory of the season last night. Stephen Curry and Co. made light work of the shorthanded Memphis Grizzlies squad and blew them out 121-101. Even though it was a great team win for the Warriors, a late-game decision by Steve Kerr caught everyone’s attention. The Warriors head coach picked rookie Brandin Podziemski to close the game over veteran Klay Thompson.

Despite the raised eyebrows, Steve Kerr backed his decision after the game. During a press conference, Kerr revealed why he closed the game with Podziemski instead of Klay. According to Kerr, the availability of Podziemski gives the Warriors another playmaker on the floor during clutch situations, which has been working well so far. “As long as that group is doing well, I won’t hesitate to close with it.” Kerr added. Podziemski played great against the Grizzlies last night. He took the responsibility his head coach gave him and finished with 12 points, 14 assists, and 7 rebounds. Not only did he dish out a career-high in assists, but he also did it with 0 turnovers.

Steve Kerr also acknowledged that Klay Thompson has been playing well recently and will get several chances to close games in the future. The Curry, Podziemski, Wiggins, Kuminga, and Draymond closing lineup has been working well for the Warriors recently. And Kerr will give other lineups a chance if they perform as efficiently. However, Kerr’s decision in the last game has raised some concerns for Klay as he has been in the trade rumors all season.

Read More: 20YO “Trouble-maker” Brandin Podziemski Describes Wholesome Moment With 7th Grade Teacher after Warriors Loss

Is Klay getting benched a sign of things to come?

With the February 8 trade deadline only 5 days away, the Warriors are desperately looking for a new star to turn their season around. They have been in constant pursuit of several superstars, including Atlanta Hawks guard Dejounte Murray. That could mean the Warriors might have to part ways with some key assets like Klay Thompson. Klay is in the final year of his 5-year $189 million contract. And the Warriors might not re-sign him if they fail to agree on the terms of a new contract.

Although Klay is starting to regain some momentum and get back to playing at a high level, he is no longer the player he was before his injuries. Klay is averaging his lowest numbers since the 2013-14 season at 17.5 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 2.3 assists. With Stephen Curry and Co. performing well with Klay on the bench, the Warriors might consider trading Klay for a bigger star. Klay Thompson’s Warriors’ future hangs in the balance as the trade deadline looms closer.

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