3 Reasons Golden State Warriors aren't as bad as they look

3 Reasons Golden State Warriors aren’t as bad as they look

By Tony Pesta | Jan 3, 2021

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - DECEMBER 22: (NEW YORK DAILIES OUT) Andrew Wiggins #22 of the Golden State Warriors in action against the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center on December 22, 2020 in New York City. The Nets defeated the Warriors 125-99. 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 the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images) /

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(Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images) /

3. Draymond Green’s return

Let’s look at why the Warriors haven’t been competitive against some of the top teams in the NBA. Oh, they are missing one of the most versatile defenders in league history and the guy who was considered their heart and soul during all three championship runs? Maybe that’s a reason why they aren’t playing at their best, right?

Green hasn’t looked like his normal self in recent years, that’s for sure. However, take one look at his numbers in the 2019 NBA Playoffs when Kevin Durant was injured and we can see that Green still has fuel in the tank. He averaged 14.1 points, 11.2 rebounds, 9.1 assists, 1.9 steals and 1.7 blocks during the final 10 games of that postseason.

Dray played just 17 minutes in his return against Portland and looked about how we would have expected – rusty. It will take some time for Green to be back in game shape and until then we can’t really judge this team.

His role as a secondary playmaker, ball-screener and defender can’t be understated. This team will look different once Green is back in full swing.

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