Draymond Green was drafted by the Golden State Warriors, and since his rookie season, he has helped the team in various ways. Green may not be a player who has a direct impact on the score during a game, but Dray has helped the Dubs in other ways throughout his career.
It’s not surprising that many believe the Warriors dynasty wouldn’t be that strong without the defense and leadership of Green. But over the last couple of years, Green has arguably lost his edge as a leader of the team.
The final nail in the coffin for his tenure with the Warriors was arguably his recent altercation with Jordan Poole when he punched Poole during practice. Many believe that Green is jealous of Poole, as both players are up for a major contract extension soon.
But considering that Poole is just entering the brightest years of his career, it won’t be a surprise if the Dubs prefer to give the contract extension to him over Green.
2022-23 NBA Season Could Be The Last Time Draymond Green Wears A Warriors Uniform
Following the altercation, many rumors have emerged about Green’s future with the Dubs. NBA analyst Stephen A. Smith went as far as saying Green wants to be a Laker next season.
“I can tell you right now, [Andrew] Wiggins and Poole are a priority,” Smith said. “I can tell you right now that Draymond Green is expecting this to be his last year in Golden State. Now, he wanna be a Laker. He ain’t gonna tell anybody that, but don’t think I don’t know. He’d prefer to be a Laker if he gotta leave Golden State.”
If Green indeed leaves the Warriors, joining the Lakers will certainly help him in possibly winning another NBA Championship. But following these rumors, the Lakers’ fanbase is certainly not excited. If anything, they do not want to do anything with Green.
We don't want him. Not everyone can be a Laker. I like tough and physical and even borderline crazy players but once you cross too many lines I'm good. The Lakers don't need to overpay anymore role players. You pay stars & guys who are great at their specialized roles that's it.
— M.J.G. (@mario_fowler2) October 10, 2022
https://twitter.com/StephGotNext4/status/1579571696423796737
Lmfao so according to Stephen a kyrie and draymond going to be in LA next year
— Lebron Fan (@LeGoatburner1) October 10, 2022
we do not want bro please😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
— kendrick🌪 (@currey_2) October 11, 2022
Smitty my boy Stop it already; Green situation needed 2 come to light before the RS starts;Green will get the help he needs for the betterment of Dubs Team;He know he was out of line with his action against JP;Right now he is digging deep within himself 2 B Better!
— Marva cuffy (@MarvaCuffy) October 10, 2022
Laker fans… pic.twitter.com/BR5HfQX8eQ
— Jerry Hairston, Jr. (@TheRealJHair) October 11, 2022
Why would the lakers want someone who can’t shoot a lick? Needs the ball in his hands to playmake. You’re not taking the ball away from lebron or AD
— P (@Pinky_GOAT24) October 10, 2022
He used Poole face as a bus transfer…sad situation! That smokey mirror apology is pathetic. Why? They need a bully in case a pair of knees or ankles buckle? If he goes there so will his distractions. LeBron can't stop the media and proud parents
— RiskyB.I. (@TheRealRiskyBI) October 10, 2022
Don’t think Stephen A has been right about much nba stuff. This likely means Dray will sign with gsw
— Jacob Lerum (@JdLerum) October 10, 2022
https://twitter.com/BearFallsSalmon/status/1579581198464356352
The biggest reason behind this speculation is the fact that Green is also a client of Klutch Sports. Apart from that, there is no reason why the Lakers would want an aging Green who is arguably out of his prime. But if Green can make amends about his temperament and his performance issues, the Lakers may at least inquire about welcoming Green to LA.