Golden State Warriors sharpshooter Klay Thompson showed off his scoring prowess on Thursday night, as he came off the bench for the first time since his rookie year in 2012. The move proved successful as Thompson dropped a season-high 35 points, including an impressive 7-for-13 from behind the arc, in the team's 140-137 victory over the Utah Jazz. Warriors coach Steve Kerr was pleased with the outcome and stated that he plans to stick with Thompson as the sixth man, at least for now.

Thompson's open acknowledgement of his struggles this season, not just in shooting but also in dealing with age and a diminishing skill set, prompted the Warriors to explore a new role for the seasoned player. Rather than viewing the shift as a demotion, Thompson embraced the opportunity, displaying renewed energy and focus throughout the game.

The impact of Thompson's performance was undeniable. As Kerr pointed out, Thompson's competitiveness and championship mentality shone through. The 34-year-old guard showcased his ability to go on scoring sprees, with his first 18 minutes on the court being particularly impressive. Kerr commended Thompson's response to the change and described his game as "great."

Despite Thompson's struggles this season, the Warriors may have found a solution in utilizing him as a sixth man. Thompson's numbers may not be up to his usual standard, averaging 17 points while shooting 41% from the field and 37% from beyond the arc, but his impact goes beyond statistics. When Thompson is on the floor, the Warriors have been outscored by 7.8 points per 100 possessions, making it clear that adjustments were necessary.

By bringing Thompson off the bench, the Warriors can minimize the defensive focus on him, allowing him to thrive as a scoring threat. The team may also employ zone defense more often when Thompson is on the court. This new role also provides the Warriors with flexibility on the offensive end. If Thompson is on fire, like he was against the Jazz, they can let him ride. However, if he's having an off night, they can easily make adjustments without disrupting the team's rotations.

Furthermore, the performance of rookie Brandin Podziemski, who took Thompson's place in the starting lineup, should not be overlooked. Podziemski has been impressive throughout the season, including his performance on Thursday night. With the return of Chris Paul, the dynamic duo of Thompson and Paul off the bench could prove devastating for opponents, as lineups featuring both players have boasted a net rating of plus-six this season in over 500 minutes of play.

Kerr and Thompson have both emphasized the need for Thompson to get out of his own head and embrace his true potential. Moving to the sixth man role may provide the much-needed space and freedom for Thompson to regain his confidence and play his natural game. He can now take comfort in knowing that the team has a capable starting and closing unit that can thrive without him if necessary.

The experiment of having Klay Thompson as the Warriors' sixth man has shown promising results. While the change may not be permanent, it certainly adds a new dimension to the team's lineup. Thompson's exceptional performance off the bench serves as a reminder of his offensive firepower and the impact he can have when he finds his rhythm.

In the end, this strategic move could be the key to revitalizing Thompson's season and helping the Warriors maintain their championship aspirations.