Draymond Green has been a pillar of the NBA ever since he entered the league. Arguably the second-best player in the last dynasty, Green is critical to the success of the Golden State Warriors. While his temperament always remains a question mark, it has often benefited the Warriors. But with time, that impact is starting to lessen.
What began as a regression in his shooting has also spread to other parts of his game. Whether it be temper control or defense, Draymond can be hurtful to Golden State at times. That isn’t to say that the former DPOY doesn’t have value.
His connection with Stephen Curry remains a joy to behold and a surefire guarantee for success. Further, his mentorship of the young core in The Bay has always been fascinating. Outside the Jordan Poole incident, younger players have constantly spoken about Green’s impact on their careers.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Draymond Green, Golden State Warriors Updates
But, like all good things, this, too, must end. And in the case of Dray, he knows the end is near. However, rather than wallow in the inevitability, Green is making the most of his opportunities and setting himself up for a post-basketball career.
The end is near for Draymond Green
For nearly two years, the Draymond Green podcast has been a constant in basketball. Rather than allowing repetitive discussions or media talking heads to drive the narrative, Green spins his weave.
As a result, “The Draymond Green Show” has become a weekly highlight and a major part of the basketball fandom over time. As he enters the twilight of his career, Draymond’s focus is on opportunities like those.
Making an appearance on the Jeff Teague podcast, Dray spoke about his career and how long he has been in the league. “I’m on the wrong side of my down slide. Like, I’m headed into Year 13. I probably got two more (seasons).” As he said, focusing on the next phase of life is starting to take priority for the 4-time NBA Champion. Whether it be podcasting or odd appearances on TV, his role as a mainstream athlete continues to grow.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Draymond Green, Golden State Warriors Updates
Simultaneously, his and the Golden State Warriors’ play significantly declined. Over the last two years, that downfall has been even more apparent. After flaming out in the second round against the Los Angeles Lakers, the first non-Finals playoff loss of Steve Kerr’s coaching career, the team failed even to make the playoffs last season.
A big part of that came down to Green. Due to his court performances, he was constantly in and out of the lineup. As a result, the team could not find continuity, and the struggle was real.
His impact on the team is still huge and undeniable. Whether it is defensively, as a floor general, or as a leader for the young guys, Green is one-of-one. Jonathan Kuminga, who came into his own as a starter for Golden State, spoke at length about the help Draymond gave him. But, at this point, availability is a real question mark for the four-time All-Star.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Draymond Green, Golden State Warriors Updates
Due to his current value to the team, Joe Lacob and the management gave him an extension. As a result, $77.7 million and three years are still on the table for him, with the final year containing a player option. It remains to be seen if Green will be worth the price the Warriors have paid for him. But it looks like the sun is setting on a Hall of Fame, legendary NBA career.
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