“If you’re out there talking to officials whole night, you might get in your own way” - Klay Thompson throws shade at Celtics players for complaining to officials ahead of pivotal Game 6

Klay Thompson during 2022 NBA Finals - Game Five media session
Klay Thompson during 2022 NBA Finals - Game Five media session

Golden State Warriors star Klay Thompson fired shots at the Boston Celtics players for their frequent complaints to the officials during the NBA Finals. Celtics players and fans believe officiating hasn't favored them as much as the Warriors during the Finals.

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Boston players constantly argued with the referees during their 104-94 Game 5 loss. After the game, they admitted that it distracted them from their goal of winning the tie.

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Reporters asked Thompson if the Warriors fed off the Celtics' distractions, to which he responded by saying (via Warriors on NBCS Twitter):

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“I don’t think we focus on it too much, to be honest. We have a next-play mentality. We’re just worried about getting a great shot up in those moments, not what the other team is talking about. Basketball is a very continuous game. If you’re out there talking to the officials the whole night, you might get in your own way.”
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It has been a controversial series thus far. The Golden State Warriors and Boston Celtics have played with extreme physicality. Players from both sides have expressed dissatisfaction with refereeing on the court several times, but it's fair to say the Celtics have done it more often.


Boston Celtics should listen to Klay Thompson's advice

The Boston Celtics were heavily favored to win the championship before the NBA Finals started. The oddsmakers also favored them before Game 5. However, the Golden State Warriors' experience has come in handy so far, giving them a mental advantage over the young Celtics team

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The Celtics have often dug themselves into a hole during crunch situations. Jayson Tatum and co. have sought to draw fouls instead of sticking to their game plan and limiting their turnovers.

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The Celtics should now take a leaf out of Klay Thompson's book and focus on what they can control. The Warriors have been to six NBA Finals in the last eight years, so they are aware of the adversity they may face due to external factors.

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From battling hostile crowds on the road to seeing calls go against them, Klay Thompson and company have maintained their composure throughout and are now one win away from sealing another title.

The Boston Celtics will have home court advantage in Thursday's contest. A bit more focus could help them potentially save the series and force a Game 7.

Boston Celtics Nation! You can check out the latest Boston Celtics Schedule and dive into the Celtics Depth Chart for NBA Season 2024-25.

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Edited by Sankalp Srivastava
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