Golden State Warriors: Fatigue is the reason for Draymond’s decline

SAN FRANCISCO, CA - DECEMBER 28: Draymond Green #23 of the Golden State Warriors smiles during the game before the game against the Dallas Mavericks on December 28, 2019 at Chase Center in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2019 NBAE (Photo by Noah Graham/NBAE via Getty Images)
SAN FRANCISCO, CA - DECEMBER 28: Draymond Green #23 of the Golden State Warriors smiles during the game before the game against the Dallas Mavericks on December 28, 2019 at Chase Center in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2019 NBAE (Photo by Noah Graham/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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Draymond Green is having a rough season with the Golden State Warriors.

It’s been a grueling two seasons for Draymond Green and the Golden State Warriors.

Green had perhaps his most inefficient season to date last year when the three-time All-Star scored just 7.4 points per game on 28.5 percent 3-point shooting. Though he ramped it up for a brief moment in the playoffs, it was clear that something was wrong with Green.

Entering this season, Green’s decline has been even more noticeable. Green is averaging below 10 points again and has looked gassed at time. He is no longer a top tier defender and his shooting has become worse.

“I think the last couple games he’s looked tired,” Kerr said to NBC Sports reporters. He went on to suggest an extended period of rest may be in store for Green.

This may be for the best. After all, Draymond is the only member of the Warriors’ previous five playoff runs to still be active on the roster. Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson are both receiving much-needed rest while nurturing significant injuries.

In the last six seasons, Green has totaled over 400 games and 13,000 minutes of playing time. It’s safe to say that the former Defensive Player of the Year is beginning to feel the wear and tear of this stretch.

As Green approaches 30 years of age, it’s a good idea for the Warriors to monitor his health. Green still has four more seasons left on his $99 million dollar contract and will need to be healthy in order for this to pay off for both sides.

Sitting Green for a few games feels like a win-win. Allow the team to secure the worst record in the league and a chance at the top pick in the 2020 NBA Draft. Next season, the Warriors will be back at full strength with revenge on their minds.