In the ever-evolving landscape of the NBA, the Golden State Warriors have made it clear that Draymond Green remains a foundational piece of their puzzle. Despite the swirling rumors that often accompany trade deadlines, Warriors owner Joe Lacob has emphasized that Green was never on the trading block this year.
The Warriors did make an ambitious attempt to acquire Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo, but the deal didn't come to fruition. Lacob clarified the situation, stating, “He was never discussed in a trade; Mike was 100% correct what he said.” Lacob acknowledged the pressure and speculation that can arise during such high-stakes negotiations, but he was firm in his stance that Green’s name never came up in any serious trade talks.
Draymond Green, a player synonymous with the Warriors' recent success, has been a key figure in their four NBA championships and is a four-time All-Star. His defensive prowess earned him the 2016-17 Defensive Player of the Year Award, and his leadership and versatility on the court make him indispensable to Golden State’s strategy.
Financially, Green is set to earn $25.9 million this season, with a player option for $27.7 million next season. His contributions go beyond the stat sheet, though his current averages of 8.4 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game are solid. The Warriors, currently sitting in eighth place in the Western Conference, are looking to build on their 2022 championship win and make a deeper playoff run.
For Golden State, trading a player of Green's caliber would require a significant return, something that Lacob and the Warriors’ management are acutely aware of. As Lacob put it, “You don’t trade a Draymond Green simply or easily. You do it if you have to, and you’re getting tremendous value and you’re improving your team.”
As the season progresses, the Warriors will continue to rely on Green’s leadership and experience, hoping to leverage their core strengths for another championship push.