Steve Kerr on Warriors guard Klay Thompson: 'He's doing well'

OAKLAND, Calif. -- Golden State Warriors guard Klay Thompson is expected to play in Game 1 of the NBA Finals, according to coach Steve Kerr.

"He's doing well," Kerr said after practice Saturday at the team's facility.

"I'm anticipating he's going to be there."

Thompson was diagnosed with a concussionafter suffering a blow to the head in Wednesday's series-clinching win over the Houston Rockets. He was cleared to play that evening but did not return to game action. Hemust be symptom free before he can return to practice, according to the NBA's concussion protocol.

Asked if he is preparing for Thompson's absence, Kerr said he was planning only for Thompson to be in the lineup. Game 1 of the NBA Finals against the Cleveland Cavaliers is Thursday.

"I expect him there," Kerr repeated.

On the process by which Thompson will be eventually cleared, Kerr said, "There's sort of a progression of tests that he has to go through for NBA protocol, league protocol. But he's going through that process.

"Klay's disposition never changes. He's always just mellow and he just sort of takes it all in stride. It's good that we have this break, because he has the time to go through what he needs to get through."

The Warriors are taking Sunday off and resuming practice Monday.

Information from The Associated Press contributed to this report.