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Golden State Warriors: Potential destinations for Draymond Green in free agency

By Cezary Chruściel

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - JUNE 16: Draymond Green #23, Klay Thompson #11 and Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors laugh together after defeating the Boston Celtics 103-90 in Game Six of the 2022 NBA Finals at TD Garden on June 16, 2022 in Boston, Massachusetts. 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 Adam Glanzman/Getty Images)
BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - JUNE 16: Draymond Green #23, Klay Thompson #11 and Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors laugh together after defeating the Boston Celtics 103-90 in Game Six of the 2022 NBA Finals at TD Garden on June 16, 2022 in Boston, Massachusetts. 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 Adam Glanzman/Getty Images) /
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With Draymond Green now entering unrestricted free agency amid a huge 72-hour period for the Golden State Warriors, the franchise now faces a crucial juncture that could significantly shape their future.

After a blockbuster trade that saw Jordan Poole head to the Washington Wizards for Chris Paul, it’s become clear that the Warriors’ primary focus has been on constructing a championship-contending team around their veteran core. However, with the potential departure of Green, their priorities may shift.

Maintaining substantial impact for the Golden State Warriors in 2022-23, contending teams could make a play for free agent Draymond Green.

Green averaged 8.5 points, 7.2 rebounds and 6.8 assists this season, continuing to display his two-way presence in a Warrior season that ultimately finished in disappointment. In light of the uncertainty surrounding the future of the Warriors’ veteran, it’s worth exploring the potential destinations where Green could contribute greatly. Let’s examine the teams that could greatly benefit from acquiring Golden State’s experienced forward.

1.Golden State Warriors

"“Look, if Draymond is not back, we’re not a championship contender. We know that. He’s that important to winning and to who we are. I absolutely want him back.”"

They were the words of Steve Kerr in his end-of-season press conference. Retaining Green is the most important move the Warriors need to make this offseason. Their salary cap isn’t in a flexible situation, even with the trade for Paul, so the front office needs to do everything they can to keep the second most impactful player of Golden State’s dynasty.

Will Draymond Green leave the Warriors this summer?
Draymond Green, Klay Thompson and Stephen Curry celebrating their fourth championship with the Golden State Warriors in 2022. (Photo by Adam Glanzman/Getty Images) /

As Kerr said, Green’s return for what would be his 12th season in the Bay would mean rebuilding the trust of his teammates after October’s Jordan Poole incident, even if the young guard is no longer with the franchise.

"“He knows that he also compromised things by what happened back in October. So part of him coming back next year has to be about rebuilding some of that trust and respect that he’s earned here for a long period of time.”"

Golden State’s defensive anchor also made his intentions clear about staying in San Francisco to complete some unfinished business with the organization.

"“I don’t know what the options will be; I don’t know what my option will be here; I don’t know any of those things. What I can tell you is, I want to be here. I’ve been here 11 years, and you just don’t throw that away, and, quite frankly, I think we still have more championships that we can and will win”, Green said."

The 33-year-old’s primary focus is winning, and it is highly probable that he will continue to contribute to the Warriors’ quest for NBA titles. Nevertheless, the possibility of Green departing the franchise exists. As a result, let us consider other teams that could benefit from acquiring the four-time All-Star

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