Klay Thompson and Draymond Green “Need to Be Traded” Despite Their Loyalty to Warriors, Claims Ex-NBA Champion

Yesterday, the Golden State Warriors suffered yet another devastating defeat, this time to an injury-ravaged Memphis Grizzlies team. Despite missing the likes of Ja Morant, Desmond Bane, and Marcus Smart, the Grizzlies won the game by a scoreline of 116-107. The fallout after the game was swift, as many fans urged the Warriors’ hierarchy to trade away players like Klay Thompson and Draymond Green despite their years of loyal service.

In the latest episode of ESPN’s First Take, former NBA champion Kendrick Perkins stated that the Warriors need to make a change. He said, “You cannot have your emotions and feelings tied for so long, and that’s what we are seeing with the Golden State Warriors…. The fact of the matter is both (Klay and Draymond) of them need to be traded.” Both Draymond and Klay have witnessed a slump in their performances and production. In fact, Klay has endured his worst season statistically since his sophomore season back in 2012-13. He has averaged 17.3 points, 3.5 rebounds and 2.4 assists per game this season.

On the other hand, the NBA suspended Draymond indefinitely after he punched Suns’ center Jusuf Nurkić in the face on 12th December. After 12 games, the NBA rescinded Draymond’s suspension on 8th January. Green made his long-awaited return yesterday, contributing just 7 points and 7 rebounds. It has become quite evident that the Warriors are in dire need of a roster reshuffle. And according to Shams Charania, barring Stephen Curry, everyone could be on the trade block. However, will trading away Draymond and Klay act as a catalyst for change, or will it further aggravate their problems?

Is trading Klay and Draymond the right option?

Stephen Curry, along with Draymond and Klay, has been integral to the Warriors’ success in the past decade. Together they have achieved a CV, that very few players can rival. However, in light of their lackluster performances, fans are becoming increasingly frustrated with Draymond and Klay. But building around them would be a better option rather than trading them.

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Despite the recent drop-off in form, Klay still remains the Warriors’ second-leading scorer, with 17.3 points per game. Furthermore, Draymond still remains the defensive anchor and the playmaking hub of the team. With Curry still performing at an All-NBA level, there’s still hope that the Warriors can bounce back. Having said that, the Warriors’ hierarchy needs to orchestrate a trade in order to improve their chances in the postseason. Can the Warriors produce a stunning comeback in the second half of the season, or has the Warriors dynasty run its course? Let us know in the comments below!

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