Draymond Green’s name is often floating around in the media cycle. The Golden State Warriors star is known for his outspoken nature, which has helped him create a very successful podcast.
However, it was during Green’s appearance on the ‘Podcast P with Paul George’ show that Green addressed a topic that has been on NBA fans’ minds for a while – his friendship with Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James.
“As far as us being as tight as we are, that’s my big brother. Love him to death,” Green said. “And ain’t nothing changing that. Only thing changing is our relationship continues to grow.”
Due to Green’s friendship with LeBron, multiple rumors surfaced throughout last season, linking the Warriors forward with a potential move to the Lakers in free agency. However, those rumors proved to be unfounded when Green inked a four-year $100 million contract extension during the early stages of free agency.
Green discussed how fans view his friendship with LeBron James
During the same podcast episode, Draymond Green discussed the fan narrative surrounding his friendship with LeBron.
“Because ours (friendship) is on display in front of the world, then it’s like, oh, it’s an issue,” Green said. “What I’m here to tell people is you probably shouldn’t concern yourself with that because there’s nothing you can do about it, and it doesn’t affect your life.”
There are many players around the league who have tight-knit friendships with stars on other teams. Jayson Tatum of the Boston Celtics has made no secret of his friendship with Bradley Beal. Just like LeBron and Carmelo Anthony before the pair teamed up with the Lakers.
Being friends with other NBA stars doesn’t mean the players will go easy on each other or look to team up. We all have friends at work, and for those within the league, it’s the same thing.
Draymond Green expects Chris Paul to have a big impact on Jonathan Kuminga
Draymond Green also discussed the impact of Chris Paul, who joined the Golden State Warriors via a trade with the Washington Wizards. Green notes how Paul has a track record of bringing the best out of young talent and how he’s looking forward to seeing Jonathan Kuminga’s growth alongside veteran guard.
“I actually look forward to learning this from him,” Green said. “I think Chris Paul will completely unlock Jonathan Kuminga and his growth. CP is great with young guys. Deandre Ayton looked like a bus before CP came to Phoenix. No disrespect to Ayton – more so a nod to CP. What he will do for Jonathan Kuminga and unlocking Kuminga, is huge.”
The Warriors added Paul to provide a new dimension to their rotation and bring some much-needed playmaking and shot creation to their bench. If Paul can also help bring the best out of Kuminga, then it will be seen as a happy bonus for a team whose sole focus is on winning another championship.
