Klay Thompson "Optimistic" He Will Play Friday vs. Celtics

Golden State Warriors guard Klay Thompson is optimistic that he will be able to play tonight against the Boston Celtics despite an injured ankle.

Thompson sprained his ankle in the fourth quarter of their victory over the Pacers on Tuesday and has missed Golden State's last two practices. However, if he's going to play, he'll have to convince interim head coach Luke Walton that he's ready to go.

“If there’s any concern at all that his ankle is hurt, then we’re not going to play him,” Walton said. “But, if he feels good and the trainers say he’s good, then there’s a chance he could play.”

Thompson's availability will be determined after shootaround and pre-game warmups. Backup shooting guard Leandro Barbosa is questionable to play as he deals with an illness that has kept him out of practice this week, and third-string shooting guard Brandon Rush is already starting at small forward for Harrison Barnes, who is dealing with a high left ankle sprain.

If both Thompson and Barbosa are unable to play against the Celtics, fourth-string Ian Clark will get the start.

Thompson is averaging 18.2 points per game on 46.5 percent shooting, including 44.2 percent from three-point range. He scored 39 points and made 10 three-pointers against the Pacers on Tuesday.

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