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USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

Draymond Green stands as one of the most formidable defensive anchors a team could hope for. Throughout the past decade, his on-court leadership shone brightly during the Warriors‘ championship campaigns. Despite modest career stats of 8.7 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 5.6 assists, his worth to the Warriors is immeasurable. This offseason, Golden State’s profound appreciation for Green was on full display. Despite swirling rumors of his potential departure, the franchise swiftly secured the forward’s services in the early days of free agency.

The Warriors and Green inked a lucrative 4-year deal, guaranteeing him $100 million throughout his tenure. Indeed, players like Green go beyond mere numbers; they undertake the gritty and exhausting tasks necessary to bolster their star-studded teammates. In a recent conversation, former NBA players passionately discussed the unique abilities that Green consistently exhibits on the court.

Who’s evaluating the league and Draymond Green?

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In a recent episode of the Underdog NBA show, former NBA players Rashard Wallace and Bonzi Wells engaged in a lively discussion covering various aspects of basketball. At the outset of their conversation, they delved into the noticeable evolution of the NBA over the years.

In the same context, Wells used Draymond Green as a prime example to illustrate his point that the league has become considerably softer than in the past. He emphatically stated,?“Draymond Green can cuss these m**er**ers out, he can get in their face. He can do all the antics, this and that and they won’t say nothing”.

Moreover, Bonzi asserted if another player were to pull similar stunts to Green’s, they would likely not escape without facing repercussions. Further, he argued that, in the name of protecting their star players, the NBA has transformed into more of an entertainment spectacle. Unlike other times, when it was just a ruthless and intense competition.

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Can Green play in the Warriors’ season opener?

At the start of October, the Warriors made an official announcement regarding Draymond Green’s absence. It stated that Green would be unavailable due to an ankle injury. As a result, he has been notably absent from the Warriors’ preseason matches. Nevertheless, the Warriors don’t find themselves pressured to make any significant decisions regarding their starting lineup just yet.?

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This is because there has been a glimmer of hope. According to ESPN’s Kendra Andrews, Draymond is likely to make his return during the Warriors’ first regular-season game against the Phoenix Suns on October 24th. Green’s role on the team is undeniably pivotal. He is not only the best defender but arguably the best playmaker on the roster. The question of his availability holds immense importance for the team’s overall success.

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