The Golden State Warriors struggled without Stephen Curry and Draymond Green last night. Luka Doncic and Co. made light work of the Warriors and beat them 109-99. Following the loss, Draymond gave an update on his back injury and how it has been a lingering issue for the former DPOY.
In the latest episode of The Draymond Green Show, the Warriors Forward said, “My back has been bothering me for 4 or 5 games.” Green revealed that he has been playing through the pain despite the injury. He gets treatment from his medical staff before every game to be able to perform on the court. But the effect wears off by the time the second half begins, “Third quarter or so, it just locks all the way back up.” Green revealed he missed the Mavs clash to hopefully eliminate the pain completely. “Those extra couple of days will allow it to go away because it’s just no fun.”
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Green plans to return to action for Saturday’s game against the Los Angeles Lakers. “My plan and hope is to play Saturday.” But it will depend on how his back responds before the game. The Warriors Forward also revealed his current back issues are in the same area he had the last time. He remembered how hard it was to recover from his previous back injury as he had to re-learn basic bodily functions like walking, running, and jumping. “My body keeps giving me these warning shots.” Draymond would not want to take any chances by returning early and risking a long-term injury.
Draymond Green stats in last 10 games
Draymond’s health will be key for the Warriors’ success in this final stretch of the regular season. Even at 34 years old, Green is having a productive season. He is averaging 9 points, 7 rebounds, and 5.9 assists. More importantly, Draymond’s availability brings a more defensive presence to the team and allows Stephen Curry and Co. more freedom on offense. In the last 10 games, Green has averaged 7.2 points, 8 rebounds, and 5.4 assists. But Green’s impact on the Warriors lies beyond the stat sheet.
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In the 25 games Draymond has missed this season, the Warriors have an 11-14 record. Meanwhile, Stephen Curry and Co. have a 23-17 winning record when Draymond is healthy and available. The impact of his absence was evident in yesterday’s loss, as the Warriors were unable to make a comeback despite Luka’s late-game injury. With only 17 games remaining in the regular season, the Warriors hope Draymond recovers from his injury soon and helps them make a late push for the playoffs.