SAN FRANCISCO - The Warriors are navigating treacherous waters, having dropped eight of their last 12 games. With a fractured roster, the 2025-26 NBA season is at risk of being one the team would rather forget.
Central to their resilience is the spirit that Draymond Green has embodied throughout his illustrious career. Yet, even Draymond, approaching his 36th birthday, finds his spirit tested.
Since the trade deadline on February 5, Green has been quieter than usual. There was talk of him being traded, a prospect he openly accepted and discussed with his family.
When the deadline passed without a move, General Manager Mike Dunleavy denied any intention of trading him. This left Draymond, a franchise cornerstone since 2013-14, feeling uncertain.
Coach Steve Kerr touched on the challenge of navigating the twilight years of a player's career, especially in the absence of Steph Curry, which exposes team weaknesses. Kerr praised Green's dignity during these trying times, acknowledging the difficulty for someone with such pride.
Green’s optimism took a hit when Jimmy Butler III was sidelined with a season-ending ACL injury. Curry’s uncertain return adds to the weight on Green's shoulders. The trade rumors and his career's finite nature are a lot to handle.
On Thursday night, in a 121-110 loss to the Boston Celtics, Green struggled. He played 19 minutes without scoring, missing all seven of his shots, including five from beyond the arc.
He had three assists, two rebounds, and ended with a team-worst minus-28. Green watched from the bench as his teammates mounted a brief comeback, cutting a 34-point deficit to 11.
Kerr emphasized the importance of maintaining Green's morale and helping the team find a better rhythm. Green’s frustration was evident at times, missing the presence of Butler and Curry.
“I've got to do a better job of helping Draymond,” Kerr admitted. The absence of Curry disrupts the dynamic that has been the foundation of the team’s success for 14 years. Without Curry, defenses adjust, impacting Green more than anyone else.
Curry is out with “runner’s knee” and is expected to miss at least four more games, possibly more. For the Warriors to salvage their season, Green needs to channel his energy and leadership.
Kerr involves Green in strategic discussions to keep him engaged. “One of the things I really respect about Draymond is his basketball IQ,” Kerr said. Green’s understanding of the game is crucial, especially in adapting to changes without Curry and Butler.
If Green can tap into his best self, the Warriors might stabilize. If not, they risk sliding further into mediocrity.