Home/NBA

USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

The Golden State Warriors had showcased a splendid performance against the Lakers last Saturday, only to fall to the Knicks in the very next match. Still holding the 10th place in the West, they are two games away from moving up the ladder. And with just 15 games left for the playoffs, it’s a tight fit for the Dubs. To add to the troubles, the team will be missing two key players when they host the Memphis Grizzlies on the 20th – Draymond Green and Moses Moody.

Athletic’s Anthony Slater tweeted the latest injury update about the veteran center and the young guard. “Draymond Green is questionable against the Grizzlies tomorrow night with lower back soreness. He missed a game in Dallas last week because of it. Moses Moody is questionable with left knee soreness. He left last night’s game because of it.”

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Throughout his career, Green has had minor injuries that kept him away for a few games. But the major one happened during the 2021-22 season. A back injury saw Dray away from the court for two months and during that period he required assistance for even the simplest of chores. Not to mention, this affected the lower half of the body and he could not even complete a calf raise.

That’s how bad it was. And it seems like the after-effects of the back issues are making a comeback. After missing the Dallas Mavericks matchup Green explained the difficulties he faced in the past few games in his podcast. He revealed that before each game, the medical staff would give him the required treatment but it lasted only for the first half.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Luka Doncic and Co. had made short work of the Golden State last Wednesday. In addition to Draymond Green, Stephen Curry was also absent. And despite Doncic‘s late-game injury, the Dubs still couldn’t make a comeback as they admitted a feeble defeat of 99-109. Just another reason for the 34-year-old’s presence on the court.

Draymond Green stats against obstructions

Green is having a productive season so far. He is averaging 8.8 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game. Even with the suspension and his anger issues, he is a key piece for the Warriors‘ chance at the playoffs this late in the season.  The Dubs are 113.8 in defensive rating with Draymond Green on the court and 122.0 without him. The difference here is a little too big to simply ignore.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Read More: Lebron James Hurt His “Friend” in Warriors Camp With Podcast Debut: “I’ll Live With It..”

Not to mention, they are 11-14 without “Dray-Magic” on the floor but have a 24-18 winning record with him as the floor general. As mentioned above, the Warriors only have 15 games left to make their case for the play-in spot now. And Draymond Green’s presence proves essential for the team.