With Steph Curry sidelined, someone had to bring the swagger. Enter Draymond Green.
In the Warriors’ 105-99 loss to the Lakers on Saturday night at Crypto.com Arena, Green stepped into the spotlight - and into character - with a moment that had echoes of the Splash Brother himself. After knocking down a three-pointer over none other than LeBron James, Green turned to his longtime friend and rival and let him know exactly how he felt about it.
“You better close out to me like I’m Steph Curry!” Green shouted, punctuated with his signature “BOOM!” - a moment that was caught on mic and instantly made the rounds on social media.
It was classic Draymond: fiery, fearless, and funny. He’s not exactly known for lighting it up from deep - his long-range shooting has always been more grit than grace - but when he gets one to fall, especially in a marquee matchup, he’s going to let you hear about it.
And let’s be honest: on a night when Golden State struggled mightily from beyond the arc, missing 37 threes, Green’s celebration wasn’t just for show - it was a rare bright spot. He hit two threes in the game, and he made sure to savor one of them, especially with Curry watching from the sidelines.
Curry, who’s dealing with patellofemoral pain syndrome in his right knee, is expected to be out until at least after the All-Star break, according to head coach Steve Kerr. That leaves a major void in the Warriors’ offense - not just in scoring, but in the gravitational pull Curry brings every time he crosses half court.
Without that, the Warriors have to find production - and confidence - elsewhere. And if that means Draymond Green stepping into a three and demanding the same respect Curry gets, well, that’s just part of the adjustment.
Green’s moment was more than just a taunt - it was a reminder of how much personality and pride still pulse through this Warriors team, even in a tough loss. And until Curry returns, don’t be surprised if Draymond keeps letting it fly - and letting his opponents know about it.