The Warriors cruised through the second round on their way to the Conference Finals. Who was Golden State’s MVP in their series against the Pelicans?
The Warriors took care of the Pelicans in five games during the Western Conference Semifinals, and it could have been a sweep if Golden State was fully focused in Game 3.
The Warriors saw some big-time performances from each of their superstars throughout the five-game series.
Steph Curry put up 28 points in 28 minutes in Game 2. Kevin Durant dropped 38 points in Game 4. And Klay Thompson had three games of 20+ points.
But none of them were as consistent on both ends of the floor as Draymond Green.
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We’ve written about how Draymond’s resurgence has been the key to the Warriors flipping the switch in the playoffs, and he kept that up in this series.
Draymond averaged a triple-double during the second round with 14.8 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 10 assists per game. He was also able to space the floor as he hit 8 of his 20 three-point attempts, which is good for 40%.
Green also brought it on the defensive end with 2.4 steals and 1.6 blocks per game against the Pelicans.
Everyone who’s watched the Warriors closely knows that Draymond’s impact on this team goes beyond the box score.
Green’s help defense prevented New Orleans from getting any sort of offensive rhythm going, he was able to slow down Anthony Davis when they were matched up, and Draymond’s intensity inspired the Warriors to play harder than they did during the regular season.
The Warriors are going to need a similar performance from Draymond in the Western Conference Finals if they’re going to take care of the Houston Rockets.