The Golden State Warriors have closely monitored Klay Thompson‘s recovery process as he nears his imminent return. Thompson is expected to make his much-anticipated comeback possibly as soon as the upcoming weekend. Before the star guard officially steps back onto the court, Jordan Poole provided Warriors fans another reason to express bubbling excitement.

Klay Thompson is nearing his imminent return

Over the last several weeks, Thompson has taken massive steps forward in his recovery process.

The Warriors have progressively moved him along, from receiving medical clearance for contact five-on-five drills to scrimmage games with the G-League affiliate players to intense pre-game workouts. The latest report suggests that the team is optimistic that Thompson will make his long-awaited season debut in Sunday’s game against the Cleveland Cavaliers.

As the five-time All-Star nears his return, the Warriors just got another reason to be excited.

Klay Thompson’s return should excite Warriors fans even more after Jordan Poole has flourished in his new role

Thompson’s expected return will lead to a notable change in the rotation pushing Jordan Poole to the bench as the sixth man.

Although the Warriors continue chugging forward, some concerns lay with Poole adjusting to the new spot after spending extended time as the starter in the backcourt alongside Stephen Curry. However, the Michigan product quieted those doubts after posting an impressive performance in Monday’s win over the Miami Heat with 32 points off the bench.

As Poole has done throughout the season, he’s was an effective factor all over the floor offensive from beyond the arc, nailing four 3-pointers while creating scoring opportunities with his off-the-ball movement. Beyond that, his strong outing gave head coach Steve Kerr more confidence he will remain a highly impactful player.

“There will be a lot of guys affected by Klay’s return,” Kerr said via the San Francisco Chronicle. “I’ve talked to the group, and I’ve talked to individual players…As for Jordan, he’s still going to play a huge role for our team moving forward. We’re going to need him.

“But it’s a different role, and that’s not an easy thing to adjust to during the season. We’re lucky to have Jordan, we’re thrilled with his progress over the last couple of years, and we think he’s going to be an impact player for us for a long time.”

Poole has been one of the pivotal pieces to the puzzle that has anchored the Warriors’ strong start. Golden State will rely on the 22-year-old to provide offensive production even with Thompson back. He’s established himself enough to garner a sizable offensive role, especially as the lead-guard off the bench.

Warriors must exercise patience with Klay Thompson

Thompson’s return will provide a significant offensive spark, but more importantly, a crucial transition.

The Warriors will take the precautionary approach with the star guard’s workload, allowing him to progressively work his way into more minutes. Golden State won’t push him more than he’s physically capable of handling as he gets his legs back under him from missing more than the last two years.

Poole will play a massive part as he shoulders a prominent role that will decrease as Thompson finds his footing. His presence also alleviates additional pressure on Thompson to produce at a high level right away. Poole’s offensive workload will take a hit, but his importance to the team remains the same, if not greater.

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