Draymond Green is a player whose impact cannot be seen simply by looking at the box score. He is well-known for being a DPOY level defender when healthy, as well as being one of the best playmaking big men in the league. Currently, Draymond Green is averaging 7.9 PPG, 7.6 RPG, and 7.4 APG this season.
Former Warriors center Festus Ezeli has recently claimed that Draymond Green is the most important player in Golden State, as he is the key for their small-ball lineup working. The Warriors have notably struggled without him, going 4-6 in their last 10 games, and 14-11 in their last 25 games.
"They built a system around him."
Hear former @Warriors center @FestusEzeli tell @talkhoops & @LegsESPN why Draymond Green is the most important player in Golden State.#DubNation pic.twitter.com/Gq4fHzbgVb
— SiriusXM NBA Radio (@SiriusXMNBA) March 2, 2022
Draymond is the most important key to this team. Why? Because they built a system around him. They built a system around the 3 guys which is Draymond, Steph and Klay. He might not be the best player on the team, but he’s the most important.
This year, they’re deciding that small-ball is the way we’re gonna go… for that to be effective, we need our Defensive Player of the Year in the back to anchor us. That’s why they went out to this huge lead to start the season, they’re 2nd in the NBA still, even with going 14-11 in the last games.
When you miss a guy like Draymond, who calls out all the coverages, who sets great screens for Steph and Klay to get open, who is the leader and the heart of the team…of course you’re going to miss Draymond.
There is no question that Draymond Green is key to the Warriors being able to play the style that they do. His passing helps unlock the shooters on the team, and they are definitely struggling defensively without him.
Draymond Green is known for showing up in big games, and there’s no doubt that the Golden State Warriors will need him to go on a deep run in the playoffs. Hopefully, he is able to return from his back injury soon, and assume his role as the defensive anchor for the Warriors once again.
