Warriors bracing for emotional Klay Thompson homecoming

Thompson, though, has tried to undermine arguably the most anticipated game of the season. Speaking to reporters on Monday, the veteran sharpshooter acknowledged that the stakes were higher since the game was part of the NBA's in-season tournament but called it "just another regular season game" that he wants to win. 

The former Warrior also didn't sound enthused when told that fans at Chase Center will wear captain's hats to honor him, an avid sailor. 

"I guess it's a good thing for the fans. Kudos to them," he said. 

His former Splash Brother, Stephen Curry, does not view the game as just another regular-season affair. 

"We've had homecomings before, but nothing like this," Curry said, via The Athletic's Anthony Slater. "The level of impact and the brand of Klay in the Bay Area is something that I don't think any words will do justice... He deserves the celebration and the welcome he's going to get."

Curry added that he plans to use the event as an opportunity to reflect on all the memories he shared with Thompson in a Warriors uniform. However, he understands why Thompson wouldn't want to get overly emotional, as he's already moved on to a new chapter in his career. 

Draymond Green — the other key cog of the former Warriors dynasty — also downplayed Thompson's homecoming. When asked if he was ready for the "Klay game," Green called it "a very important in-season tournament game" and refused to speak on his former teammate. 

Thompson helped the Warriors win four championships before he signed with the Mavericks as a free agent this year. Golden State has already retired his No. 11 jersey and plans to erect a statue in his honor when he retires from pro basketball.