As the NBA trade deadline approaches, the Golden State Warriors are reportedly willing to include Draymond Green in a potential deal for Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks. According to multiple media outlets, Green, a key figure in the Warriors’ recent success, is now on the market as the team looks to enhance its roster.
The Warriors are prepared to offer a substantial package that could include up to four first-round draft picks, a pick swap, as well as promising players like Jonathan Kuminga and Milwaukee native Brandin Podziemski. With the trade deadline set for noon on March 7, 2024, the Warriors are poised to make significant moves to secure a deal for the two-time MVP.
Green is scheduled to play what could be his last home game with the Warriors on March 5 against the Philadelphia 76ers before the team heads to Phoenix. His current contract, which pays him $27.6 million for the final year, is critical for facilitating a trade. Even if the Warriors include Kuminga, Green’s salary would be essential for matching Antetokounmpo’s financial requirements.
In addition to Green, discussions have also included the possibility of trading Jimmy Butler, who is set to earn $56.8 million next season but is currently sidelined with a torn ACL.
Green, a nine-time All-Defensive team selection and the 2017 Defensive Player of the Year, has acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding his future in the Bay Area. After a recent loss to the Detroit Pistons, he commented candidly on the trade speculation. “I’ve been here for 14 years,” Green stated. “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 with the team, but he also recognizes the realities of the trade market. “The players, especially the older guys, they understand that this is kind of part of the deal that you sign up for,” Kerr said. He acknowledged that while there is a strong bond between Green and the organization, the nature of professional sports often involves difficult decisions.
Since re-signing with the Warriors for a four-year, $100 million contract in 2023, Green has remained a cornerstone of the franchise. However, his performance has seen a decline, averaging just 8.4 points and 5.3 assists per game while committing 2.8 turnovers in approximately 26 minutes of play. His three-point shooting percentage stands at just 32.1%, raising questions about his effectiveness on the court.
Despite these challenges, Green’s competitive spirit remains intact. He leads the league with 10 technical fouls as of the upcoming game against Philadelphia, indicating his fiery presence on the court. This level of intensity, combined with his championship experience, makes Green a valuable asset for any team looking to contend.
As the Warriors navigate this critical period, the decisions made in the coming days could reshape the franchise’s future. With the clock ticking toward the trade deadline, all eyes will be on Golden State to see if they can secure a deal that brings a player of Antetokounmpo’s caliber to the team, while also managing the potential departure of one of their most iconic figures in Green.
