Draymond Green is entering his 13th NBA season. The Golden State Warriors veteran is still one of the best defensive players in the NBA and boasts an elite basketball IQ. When he’s on the court, the Warriors roster is better on both sides of the ball, as he helps organize his teammates and is a vocal leader.
In ESPN’s latest “Top-25 players of the 21st Century,” Green is ranked 22nd, sandwiched between Tony Parker in 21st and Russell Westbrook in 23rd. Both of those guards are Hall of Fame-level talents, which goes to show how impactful Green has been throughout his career.
“For as long as Curry has been the engine in Golden State, Green has been his second-in-command,” Kendra Andrews reasoned for ESPN. “The defensive anchor, his impact on the game is almost more noticeable when Green is off of the court and has propelled him to be a future hall-of-famer.”
Green is a four-time NBA champion. A four-time All-Star. The 2016-17 Defensive Player of the Year. And, he’s and eight-time All-Defensive selection. He’s a generational talent on the defensive side of the ball, and has elite processing speed that allows him to read plays before they evolve.
There’s a reason Golden State has stuck by Green throughout his difficult spells, including his multiple suspensions last season. Nevertheless, if Green can stay out of trouble and remain healthy, he will undoubtedly have an impactful 2024-25 season for the Warriors.
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