Draymond Green has missed the Golden State Warriors preseason preparations. The veteran forward suffered an ankle injury at the start of training camp and has been on the sidelines since. The Warriors have utilized some new-look lineups in Green’s absence and have remained competitive. However, the veteran forward’s leadership and elite defense will be needed once the new season begins.
According to Steve Kerr, who spoke on the “Willard and Dibs show” for 95.7 The Game, Green will not return to the Warriors rotation during their preseason schedule. Kerr also revealed that Green is questionable for the Warriors season opener against the Phoenix Suns on October 25.
“He’s not going to play this week,” Kerr said. “But he is doing really well. He’s moving much better; he went on the trip with us over the weekend and got in some individual workouts…”I’m not overly concerned about whether he plays opening night or the second week of the season, whenever it comes. It’s a long year. We just want Draymond healthy because obviously, we need him. When he’s out there, we become one of the best defenses in the league.”
Golden State has been utilizing a small-ball lineup in Green’s absence, with Steph Curry and Chris Paul starting at the guard positions and Klay Thompson sliding into a role as a forward. Whether Kerr continues to utilize a similar lineup once Green returns to the rotation will remain to be seen.
Steve Kerr on Draymond Green's status:
“Opening night is questionable. He’s not going to play this week.” (via @WillardAndDibs)
— 95.7 The Game (@957thegame) October 17, 2023
Green recently signed a four-year contract extension with the Warriors worth $100 million. Golden State will look to Green’s defense and basketball IQ to help lead them toward another NBA championship. As such, it makes sense that they’re willing to remain patient as he recovers from his ankle injury.
