Things seemed set up for the Golden State Warriors to make another run at a championship during the 2025-26 season. Unfortunately, the high potential they showed after trading for Jimmy Butler earlier this year has completely disappeared, and they enter Christmas Day with a 15-15 record.
Making matters worse was a Monday argument between Steve Kerr and Draymond Green that ended with the forward leaving the bench and being MIA for much of the third quarter. It was just the latest incident with the team great. While Kerr apologized for the verbal dustup, it may just be the latest sign the organization must move on from the 35-year-old.
If they did take the bold step of trading Draymond Green before February’s deadline, here are five teams that might target a trade, including the Detroit Pistons.
Detroit Pistons
When he was a free agent a few years ago, there were rumblings that Green’s home state team, the Pistons, had interest. In the end, he stayed with Golden State. But now may be the perfect time for him to return home. Detroit owns the best record in the East, and the very young team could use more veteran leadership with rings on its resume.
Green would certainly be motivated by returning home to a contending team and could be a huge X-factor for Detroit in the second half of the season.
Miami Heat
After playing well in November, the Miami Heat have struggled mightily in December. Surprisingly, their defense has been the big problem, and they are a bottom-10 team in points against. If they are allowed to move Terry Rozier’s contract while suspended, why not make a trade for Green?
He would certainly help improve them on defense and be a nice addition to a team that already has Bam Adebayo, Tyler Herro, and Norman Powell.
Houston Rockets
The Houston Rockets are a serious title contender. The loss of Fred VanVleet for the season led to an interesting pivot to going big with their lineup and ball handlers. Certain impact guards may be out of their price range on the trade market, but Green is another big ball handler who could come at a more affordable rate.
Plus, he fits in nicely with their defensive style and is another big moment veteran for a group that aspires to win it all this spring.
Phoenix Suns
The Phoenix Suns have been one of the nice surprises in the NBA this season. What makes their rise back to relevancy even more interesting is that it has been led by a far better defense than anyone expected. Owner Matt Ishbia is willing to make bold moves, especially when he has a soft spot for a player. Could the Michigan State alum trade for a fellow Spartan before the trade deadline? It should not be ruled out.
Plus, Green and Dillon Brooks on the same team would be must-see TV when it comes to in-game psychology.
Dallas Mavericks
The Warriors have been linked to Dallas Mavericks star Anthony Davis in recent trade rumors. Could a swap for Draymond Green be a possibility?
Dallas would certainly be open to it because they would regain a lot of cap flexibility in the deal. Golden State would also welcome the chance to get an elite-level big — when healthy — for the stretch run. Furthermore, Green being reunited with Klay Thompson could be an added motivation for the Golden State legend.
