Draymond Green of the Golden State Warriors has had a tumultuous season, with four ejections, including one just four minutes into a recent game. He has also been suspended twice this season, one of which was indefinite. Last season, during the Warriors’ training camp, he punched his then-teammate Jordan Poole in the face. Green’s recent ejection even made Stephen Curry emotional, with Curry seen hiding his face in his jersey as his eyes welled up. Green had teammate Klay Thompson on his podcast, where Thompson expressed how much the team relies on Green as their enforcer and leader.
Thompson acknowledged Green as one of the greatest winners in the history of basketball and emphasized the impact he has on the team when he is not on the court. According to Thompson, Green’s absence leaves a significant void in the team’s dynamics, allowing the opposing team to relax and feel more confident. Thompson expressed that Green’s presence is crucial for the team’s success, as he is seen as the muscle guy, enforcer, and heartbeat of the Warriors. Without Green, the team does not feel complete, and Curry, Thompson, and the young players all need his leadership and inspiration.
Green admitted that he feels the most for Curry and Thompson when he finds himself in on-court trouble, as he does not take their brotherhood for granted. Curry’s leadership has reportedly been questioned due to Green’s destructive behavior on the court, but the team has managed a 25-11 record in their last 36 games. Despite their turnaround, the Warriors had a rough start to the season, going 19-24, which has left them in the play-in tournament as the 10th seed. They would currently face the Los Angeles Lakers in a win-or-go-home situation.
Overall, the Warriors recognize the importance of Draymond Green to their team’s success and chemistry. Green’s presence as a leader, enforcer, and inspiration is valued by his teammates, particularly Curry and Thompson, who feel the impact of his absence when he is unable to play. Green’s on-court behavior has raised concerns about Curry’s leadership, but the team has managed to improve their record despite a challenging start to the season. The Warriors are currently in the play-in tournament as the 10th seed, facing a win-or-go-home situation against the Los Angeles Lakers. Despite their struggles, the team remains united in their support for Green and his significant role within the organization.
