Draymond Green, a four-time NBA champion and integral a part of the Warriors’ dynasty, has declined his $27.5 million contract choice for the 2023-24 season, according to Shams Charania of The Athletic.
The transfer has makes him an unrestricted free agent, granting him the liberty to discover provides and alternatives from different NBA groups. Given his skills and championship resume, it’s possible that a number of groups will specific curiosity in buying him.
Green, who’s spent his total 11-year NBA profession with the Warriors, averaged 8.5 factors, 6.8 assists and seven.2 rebounds final season. At 33 years outdated, he nonetheless serves as a invaluable asset to any group, offering a mixture of defensive prowess and playmaking abilities on the ground.
Here are three potential landing spots for the veteran ahead.
Golden State Warriors
There is a risk that Green might re-sign with the Warriors, as each events haven’t dominated out that state of affairs. In April, Green expressed his want to retire as a Warrior and even envisioned signing a closing contract to play 4 extra years within the league.
It wouldn’t come as a shock to anybody if Green decides to remain within the Bay Area, contemplating his familiarity with head coach Steve Kerr’s system and historical past with long-time teammates Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson.
Los Angeles Lakers
Green’s friendship with Lebron James and their shared reference to Klutch Sports may very well be the figuring out think about a possible leap to the Lakers. The Lakers haven’t been shy in offering James with the expertise wanted to make an extended postseason run, with the objective of including one other NBA title to their trophy case.
Although their main want is at level guard, the Lakers ought to think about including Green to function a defensive anchor. The group ranked twelfth within the NBA in defensive ranking (113.2), indicating that there’s want for enchancment. Adding the four-time NBA All Defensive First Team member could be a big enhance for a group who struggled stopping the Nuggets within the Western Conference Finals.
Miami Heat
It’s powerful to think about that Green, who’s a four-time NBA champ, wouldn’t wish to be part of a championship contender, just like the Heat, who’ve a win-now mentality. The Heat, who ranked No. 25 within the NBA in offensive ranking (112.3) final season, want an offensive facilitator aside from Jimmy Butler, and Green might play that position.
Despite being listed as a ahead, Green has distinctive court docket imaginative and prescient and passing abilities which might be essential in at present’s NBA. His capacity to search out open teammates creates scoring alternatives.
With a excessive basketball IQ, Green is ready to set efficient screens, transfer the ball and contribute with rebounding. His versatility extends past statistics as he offers elite management and a vocal presence on the ground. Green’s mere presence on the Heat would considerably enhance their offensive rating throughout the league.
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