The Golden State Warriors had a breathtaking 2021-22 NBA season. The franchise made a stunning comeback in the regular season as the third seed in the Western Conference. That made it obvious that the Dubs were contenders to win it all.
Come playoff time, the Warriors shifted gears and started dominating teams. As a result, they finished the season as once again the champions of the NBA. While Stephen Curry and Andrew Wiggins were the true stars of the Dubs last season, the contributions from other players cannot be overlooked.
Draymond Green is a player whose contributions are often overlooked when people talk about the success of the Warriors. Green’s contribution may not stand out in the box score, but he fulfills his job perfectly.
Since he was part of the original trio of the Warriors dynasty, the 32-year-old expects a huge contract ahead of the 2022-23 NBA season. But considering that he is not the same player that he once was, the Warriors are understandably skeptical of giving Green a max contract.
Draymond Green Doesn’t Want To Get Distracted
With the new season beginning within a month, there is still no confirmation whether the Warriors will give Green a max contract. But what we do know is that Warriors GM Bob Myers is interested in keeping Green alongside Jordan Poole and Andrew Wiggins on the roster.
While that’s the theoretical aspect of things, Green recently revealed that he doesn’t think the Warriors will extend his contract before the season starts.
Via NBC Sports:
“At this point, you know, whether I’d like to or not – I don’t think it will happen. I’m just focused on this season and being as great as I can be – and as I know I’m capable of being. And winning another championship and reaching my individual goals that I have as well.
Some people are motivated by contract years, and some people are nervous and struggle during contract years. I think it’s all based on the player. For me personally … anytime it’s a contract year is motivation. And that’s kind of how I approach it and how I view it. And it’s always been the way I’ve viewed it.”
Even if the Warriors do not provide Green with an extension, he is all set to earn $25.8 million this season.
Additionally, he will have an option to opt into his $27.6 million player option for the 2023-24 NBA season. Following that, Green could become an unrestricted free agent for the first time in his amazing NBA career.
