Ranking 7 Warriors from least to most likely to be traded to shed salary
By Tyler Watts
6. Draymond Green
The Warriors may not have to trade Green as the four-time All-Star has a $27.5 million player option for next season. He could opt out and leave the front office with an extremely difficult decision.
Green was upfront about wanting to be a “Warrior for life” after his team was eliminated by the Lakers in the second round of the playoffs. Does that mean the heart and soul of the team’s four championships is willing to take a bit less to remain with his only NBA franchise? It sounds that way, but nothing is certain.
Draymond has caused a few headaches in the Bay Area, but they would not be the same team without him. His elite basketball intelligence, playmaking ability, leadership, and defense are nearly impossible to match. Golden State cannot find a replacement. The options are to keep Green or go in a different direction.
The 33-year-old is going to want an extension, but can the two sides agree on a number? Golden State has $209.9 million committed in salaries for next season if Green opts in, which is projected to be $34.6 million over the second tax apron. The restrictions will certainly set in if Green is back, but the Warriors cannot afford to lose him.