Back in 2012, the Golden State Warriors made Draymond Green the 35th pick in the 2012 NBA Draft. The former Michigan State star has developed into one of the best draft picks in franchise history, making the All-Defensive team eight times while helping the organization secure four NBA championships in 11 seasons.
Green, 33, has had his fair share of controversial moments with the Warriors over the years, but he’s always been loyal to his team. Now given a chance to enter free agency again, Green declined his $27.5 million player option, an expected move.
Even though he may not be a championship contender’s best or in some cases, not even their second-best player, Green would still be a highly-coveted player on the open market. That’s if he even makes it that far.
Despite reported interest from teams like the Sacramento Kings and Memphis Grizzlies, the four-time All-Star seems more likely to return to the Bay Area for a 12th season with the Warriors, according to Marc Stein.
“I continue to hear nothing but strong confidence emanating from the Bay Area that an agreement on a multi-year deal for Green to stay right where he’s always been is forthcoming. (A three-year deal, league sources say, is a popular current projection for the 33-year-old.)”
NBA insider Marc Stein on Draymond Green’s future with Golden State Warriors
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In a perfect world, the Warriors would keep all their talented players who helped them win the NBA Finals in 2022, but that’s just not possible due to the salary cap constraints. We’ve already seen Jordan Poole sent out of town, with Chris Paul heading to Golden State in return. But it appears the Warriors won’t make significant changes to their starting lineup if Green really is set to return.