Despite having played with the Golden State Warriors for 14 seasons and counting, it seems high time that they look to move on from Draymond Green. Green has steadily declined, and this year, he has been a virtual non-threat on offense and slipped some defensively.
That means that his declining play, combined with his on-the-court antics, officially makes him expendable. Especially after he had a blow-up with Warriors coach Steve Kerr, resulting in him leaving the bench to go to the locker room, only to return later but sit out the remainder of the game.
Both sides have since made nice, but it’s clear that Draymond isn’t going to change his ways, and with him clearly nearing the end of his career, Golden State must consider its options.
The Warriors may trade Draymond Green in a 3-team Mavs trade
According to NBA insider Chris Haynes, the Warriors are interested in Dallas Mavericks star Anthony Davis. The only way Golden State could match salaries in a deal for Davis would be to include Green and Jonathan Kuminga or Jimmy Butler.
The latter seems highly unlikely, while the former seems reasonable given recent events. Green is making $25.9 million this season. That is considering he is probably only worth a fraction of that in terms of actual production, making his actual trade value a question mark.
Still, Golden State has few ways to match salary in a big potential trade, meaning they would likely have to include Green if they want to improve. Haynes did mention that the Mavericks likely wouldn’t take back Green, but they are clearly open to trading Davis.
The Detroit Pistons make sense as a Draymond Green trade parner
If Golden State could find a third team, then Green could soon find a new home.
The most intriguing option is the Detroit Pistons. Green grew up in Michigan and played for Michigan State.
In addition to having ties to the state, Green would give the East-leading Pistons championship experience, defense, and passing. If they are interested in landing Green, it might make a trade more likely. It would give Golden State more cover to trade a franchise legend in a deal to dramatically improve its roster.
Another potential landing spot is the Chicago Bulls. They could use more defensive help and playmaking in the frontcourt and have plenty of expiring contracts to trade to match salaries.
One last landing spot is the Milwaukee Bucks, where his salary would be key to acquiring star Giannis Antetokounmpo. If he becomes available, Golden State could strike a deal involving Green, Kuminga, Buddy Hield, and four first-round picks.
There is definitely the potential for a win-win trade involving both Davis and Green, though Golden State will have to weigh just how much it moves the needle for them.
