Warriors’ Steve Kerr expects Klay Thompson to play in Game 1 of finals

OAKLAND, Calif. – Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr is so confident Klay Thompson will be cleared for Game 1 of the NBA Finals against Cleveland that he isn’t preparing to play without him.

The All-Star guard sat out a second consecutive practice Saturday recovering from a concussion. Kerr said Thompson is feeling well and progressing through the NBA’s concussion protocol.

“I’m anticipating he’s going to be there,” Kerr said. The Warriors are off today and resume practices Monday.

Asked what his options are if Thompson can’t play, Kerr responded: “I haven’t even thought about it. The series is like five weeks away. We have plenty of time to think about that.”

“I expect him there,” Kerr repeated.

Thompson must be symptom free before he can return to practice.