The Draymond Green Show - Dray's First Game Back + Warriors Struggles
Jan 16, 2024
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Draymond Green discusses his first game back with the Golden State Warriors and addresses trade rumors. He then breaks down the top contenders in the Western Conference. Finally, he responds to comments made about his leadership on Gilbert Arenas's podcast.
The Golden State Warriors' struggling defense, ranked 25th in the league, is a major factor contributing to their current record.
Draymond Green remains focused on playing and improving with the team despite trade rumors, acknowledging that it's part of the business.
Deep dives
Podcast Recap: Draymond's Return and the Warriors' Defense Struggles
Draymond Green returned to the Warriors' lineup after his suspension, but they suffered a loss against the Memphis Grizzlies. Green acknowledged that the team has been struggling and emphasized the need to improve their defense. He also addressed trade rumors, stating that he doesn't dwell on them and understands that it's part of the business. Green discussed the emergence of young teams like the Timberwolves, Thunder, Nuggets, and Clippers in the Western Conference. He also shared his thoughts on the leadership style of Gilbert Arenas and his former teammate Nick Young's comments about their similarities as leaders.
The Warriors' Defensive Issues and the Importance of Defense
Green highlighted the Warriors' defensive struggles this season, stating that their 25th ranked defense is a major reason for their 18-22 record. He emphasized the importance of defense in achieving success and stressed the need for improvement on that end of the floor. Green also acknowledged that the team's reputation as a dynasty and their previous success makes other teams view them as a target and brings out the best in their opponents. He expressed confidence that the team can turn their season around if they focus on improving their defensive performance.
Draymond's Return and Coming off the Bench
Green discussed his return to the court after his suspension and his role coming off the bench. He mentioned that he had conversations with Coach Kerr and understood the decision to start the unit that had been playing well in his absence. Green emphasized that he prioritizes the team's success over individual roles and is willing to do whatever it takes to win. He expressed his desire for the minute restriction to be lifted, as he believes he is ready to play more minutes.
Trade Rumors and Warriors' Trade Deadline Approach
Green addressed trade rumors surrounding the Warriors, including his own name being mentioned. He stated that he doesn't pay much attention to rumors and understands that it's part of the business. Green expressed confidence in the team's front office and their ability to make the right decisions. He acknowledged that with their current record and high payroll, changes could happen, but he remains focused on playing and improving with the team until anything becomes official.
Draymond Green gives his perspective on his first game back with Steph Curry, Steve Kerr, Klay Thompson and the Golden State Warriors, why the team's defense is so bad right now, and how they're handling trade rumors that include himself, Jonathan Kuminga, and more. Then he breaks down the top contenders in the Western Conference including Anthony Edwards and the Timberwolves, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the Thunder, James Harden and the Clippers, and Nikola Jokic's Nuggets. Finally, he responds to comments Nick Young made on Gilbert Arenas's podcast about his leadership.
0:00 start 2:15 Dray's first game back 20:00 Warriors trade rumors 24:00 Western Conference contenders 30:30 Nick Young's comments