Draymond Green is one of the best defensive players to have ever played the game. He is a switchable defender who can guard all five positions effectively, and he was crucial to the Golden State Warriors dynasty of the 2010s.
Every defender has an offensive player that they would relish guarding one-on-one, perhaps someone they could test their skills against. Draymond Green has recently revealed that his dream matchup is Los Angeles Lakers legend, Shaquille O’Neal.
"I'm guarding @SHAQ — bring on the big fella"
—@Money23Green reveals his dream 1-on-1 matchup pic.twitter.com/aZVAiIZ9LK
— The Volume (@TheVolumeSports) April 27, 2022
I think the player I want to play basketball with, and play defense on at the same time is Shaq. I grew up a Shaq fan… so if I could play basketball with Shaq, and then if I could guard Shaq so I could shut everyone up with the whole “You can’t guard Shaq.”
Of course I can’t guard Shaq. But I can get a stop. I didn’t say I would stop him repeatedly. But I think at some point I am going to get a stop. I would love that challenge though… I I had the opportunity to guard him like that’s everything to me.
Everybody saying “Oh man, you played in the league back then you wouldn’t be able to guard Shaq”… shut up. I’m guarding Shaq.
There’s no doubt that a matchup between Shaquille O’Neal and Draymond Green would certainly be interesting. Shaquille O’Neal has the physical advantage over him, but Draymond Green’s skill and quickness on the defensive end could potentially allow him to get some steals to create offensive possessions for his teammates. Draymond Green views himself as the best defender ever, so he would certainly have a strategy in place for this potential matchup.
As of right now though, Draymond Green is likely focused on trying to help the Golden State Warriors win the championship. He is a crucial part of their system, and perhaps we’ll see him help them to a deep playoff run.
