Steve Kerr is optimistic that Klay Thompson will play in Game 4

It wasn’t until a few minutes before Wednesday’s Game 3 against the Toronto Raptors that the Golden State Warriors officially ruled Klay Thompson out. And because of that, it always seemed likely that Thompson would play in Game 4.

Steve Kerr seems to believe that line of thinking. After Wednesday’s loss - in which the Warriors were very shorthanded - Kerr expressed optimism that Thompson would return on Friday.

Kerr also explained his decision to sit Thompson, who injured his hamstring in Sunday’s Game 2, saying he “never would have forgiven” himself if the five-time All-Star sustained a more serious injury while rushing a return.

Prior to Game 3, Thompson remarked that he was mostly pain free, and was only experiencing discomfort when making a few specific movements. If the extra two days off eliminates that pain, it would seem likely that he’ll be back on the court on Friday, which is either the final game at Oracle Arena, or the penultimate game.

And with the season now hanging more in balance, Thompson likely has a stronger case when convincing the team to let him play.