Draymond Green proves he’s Defensive Player of the Year
Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green proved in Game 1 against the Portland Trail Blazers that he is the Defensive Player of the Year.
It should come as no surprise that Draymond Green’s defense led the way to a victory for the Golden State Warriors on Sunday. Thanks in part to some impressive blocks and one of his best defensive performances of the season, Golden State defeated the Portland Trail Blazers in the first round. However, it’s just the latest performance in a trend of them.
More from Warriors News
- 3x champion may come to regret forgoing Golden State Warriors reunion
- Golden State Warriors: History shows USA may need Stephen Curry for more than the Olympics
- Golden State Warriors villain pours on more pain to end USA’s World Cup
- Golden State Warriors: Stephen Curry continues philanthropic efforts off the court
- The Dream starting 5 for the Warriors 5 years from now
On Sunday, Green finished with a 19-12-9-5 stat line. It was those five blocks that left everyone talking. The way he sent Noah Vonleh and Damian Lillard away were reminiscent of the defensive plays he’s been making all season to win games.
Whether it was the early season game at home against the Atlanta Hawks, the defensive triple-double performance against the Memphis Grizzlies in February or yesterday’s game, Green has been pushing his team to wins with his defense.
That’s exactly what being the Defensive Player of the Year is about and Green has checked every box. There are plenty of great defensive players in the NBA, but to be able to change a game with it takes something special.
When the Trail Blazers had 88 points through three quarters in Game 1, Golden State followed Green’s lead and locked in defensively in the fourth. Locking down the opponent in the final quarter has become all too familiar territory for Golden State.
Next: Top 20 Draft Picks in Warriors History
It starts with Green and it ends with him. It’s that energy that allows the Warriors to create turnovers and get out in transition. It’s when they’re out in transition and hitting big shots that they pull away for victories. The win over the Trail Blazers in Game 1 was yet another classic example of why he is and should be the Defensive Player of the Year.