The Golden State Warriors are reportedly open to trading veteran forward Draymond Green as they pursue a deal for Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo. With the NBA trade deadline approaching on March 1, 2024, discussions are gaining momentum, positioning Green as a pivotal part of a potential blockbuster trade.
According to multiple sources, the Warriors could package Green alongside Jonathan Kuminga and Brandin Podziemski, a Milwaukee native, as well as offering up to four first-round picks and a pick swap. This strategy aims to match the financial demands of Antetokounmpo, who is one of the league’s most valued players.
As the clock ticks down to the deadline, Green is set to play what may be his final home game with the Warriors against the Philadelphia 76ers on February 27, 2024. Following that, the team will head to Phoenix for a game on March 1, just hours after the noon trade deadline.
Green’s contract, which pays him $27.6 million in the final year, is crucial for facilitating a trade, even if the Warriors include Kuminga. His salary is necessary to balance the financial aspects of acquiring a player of Antetokounmpo’s caliber.
While the Warriors are considering significant changes, Jimmy Butler, who is making $56.8 million next season, is also on the trading block but is currently sidelined with a torn ACL.
Green has openly addressed the possibility of being traded, acknowledging that his time in the Bay Area could be nearing its end. During a postgame interview following a loss to the Detroit Pistons, he stated, “I’ve been here for 14 years. I have no reason to sit and worry about leaving. But if I’m traded, that’s part of the business. I ain’t losing no sleep, though. I slept great last night.”
Warriors head coach Steve Kerr has expressed a desire for Green to retire as a Warrior, but he also recognizes the realities of the business. “The players, especially the older guys, they understand that this is kind of part of the deal that you sign up for,” Kerr remarked. “But it doesn’t make it any easier.”
Before signing a four-year, $100 million contract to remain with the Warriors in 2023, Green almost accepted a deal with the Memphis Grizzlies, as he revealed in a podcast with Fred Warner, a linebacker for the San Francisco 49ers.
Despite being a nine-time All-Defensive team selection and the 2017 Defensive Player of the Year, Green’s performance has seen a decline. Currently, he averages 8.4 points and 5.3 assists per game, while also committing an average of 2.8 turnovers in just 26 minutes. His shooting percentage from three-point range stands at a mere 32.1%.
Although his physical abilities may have diminished, Green’s competitive spirit remains strong. He is among the league leaders with 10 technical fouls this season and is approaching a mandatory suspension with just six more technicals.
As the trade deadline nears, the Warriors face a critical decision that could reshape the future of their franchise. The potential acquisition of Antetokounmpo represents not only a significant shift in talent but also a pivotal moment in the careers of key players like Green and the overall trajectory of the team.