Draymond Green 's decision to decline his $27million player option with the Golden State Warriors has caused a commotion in the NBA rumour mill as speculations about his next destination grow.
Known as the Warriors dynasty's glue guy, Green can directly impact any team who can secure his veteran services. Green could re-sign with the Warriors, as neither party has ruled out that possibility.
Green expressed his desire to retire as a Warrior in April, envisioning a final contract to extend his league career by four more years. Given his familiarity with head coach Steve Kerr's system and history with long-time teammates Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson, it won't be surprising if Green decides to remain in the Bay Area.
However, if he doesn’t decide to remain in the Bay, here are five potential landing destinations for Draymond for the upcoming NBA season.
Los Angeles Lakers
Green's close friendship with LeBron James and their connection with Klutch Sports could be the deciding factor in a potential move to the Lakers. The Lakers have shown loyalty to providing LeBron with the necessary talent for deep postseason runs and adding another NBA title to their collection.
While the Lakers' primary need is at point guard, they could bring in Green as a defensive anchor alongside Anthony Davis. The team ranked 12th in the NBA in defensive rating last season, demonstrating room for improvement on that side of the ball.
Adding a four-time NBA All-Defensive First Team member like Green would provide a significant boost, especially after they struggle against the Nuggets in the Western Conference Finals.
Miami Heat
Green is the ultimate competitor and winner, so it’s hard to think that the four-time NBA champion would pass up the opportunity to join a championship contender like the Heat, who have a win-now mentality. The Heat ranked low in offensive rating last season, and they require a facilitator alongside Jimmy Butler, which is a familiar role for Green.
Green possesses exceptional court vision and passing skills crucial in today's NBA. His ability to find open teammates would create more scoring opportunities for the Heat’s jump-shooting role players and improve the Heat's offensive ranking across the league.
In addition to his stats, Green also provides elite leadership and a vocal presence on the floor, which can be used to motivate Butler, establishing invaluable leadership for Miami.
Phoenix Suns
The fallout between Green and Kevin Durant played a part in Durant's departure from the Warriors. However, both players have evolved since then, and sharing a desire to win a championship in the latter stages of their careers could lead to a reunion.
Fresh off acquiring Bradley Beal in a blockbuster trade, Phoenix is going all-in to contend for a championship. They have also received trade interest for Deandre Ayton, their star center.
A sign-and-trade scenario could come into play, with salaries matching up between the Suns and the Warriors. Golden State needs a big man, and despite Ayton's postseason struggles, his young age and upside make him an appealing target.
While trades between division rivals are challenging, the Warriors would likely accommodate Green if he chose to leave in free agency due to his loyalty to their program.
Dallas Mavericks
If Green doesn't return to the Bay Area for some reason, the Dallas Mavericks could be a potential landing spot. The Mavericks are desperate for a defensive upgrade.
They plan to revamp their frontcourt rotation, having parted ways with a versatile big in Christian Wood. With the acquisition of Dereck Lively II's draft rights and the trade of Davis Bertans to the Thunder, the Mavericks now possess the full mid-level exception and a $17 million trade exception.
These assets allow them to pursue someone like Green and bolster their defensive prowess.
Memphis Grizzlies
The Memphis Grizzlies would need to orchestrate a sign-and-trade deal to acquire Draymond Green, as he declined a $27.6 million player option, indicating his desire for a long-term commitment with a comparable salary. To make the numbers work, players such as Tyus Jones, Steven Adams, and Brandon Clarke could be potential trade options for the Grizzlies.
Green, who has primarily played as a power forward throughout his 11-year career, shares the same position with Grizzlies defensive standout Jaren Jackson Jr., This duo - who were both former collegiate standouts at Michigan State, could form a formidable and versatile frontcourt pairing of Defensive Player of the Year winners.
While there have been on-court battles between Green and Dillon Brooks in recent years, it appears unlikely that Brooks will return to the Grizzlies for the upcoming season, potentially clearing the way for Green's arrival and a fresh style of leadership that Memphs needs for their young, talented roster.
