Warriors’ Green: ‘No cause’ for concern amid Giannis discussions
SAN FRANCISCO — Amid ongoing speculation regarding the Golden State Warriors’ interest in Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo, Draymond Green expressed that he is not worried about his future with the team as the trade deadline approaches next Thursday.
“I’ve been here for 14 years,” Green stated. “I have no reason to sit and worry about leaving. But if I’m traded, that’s part of the business. I ain’t losing no sleep though. I slept great last night.”
As per team sources, there is a prevailing sentiment that every player on the Warriors’ roster, with the exception of star guard Stephen Curry, is at risk as the front office pursues Antetokounmpo and considers how to best adjust the roster during the latter part of Curry’s career.
For salary-matching reasons, either Green, who earns $25.8 million this season, or injured forward Jimmy Butler, who has a salary of $54.1 million this season, would need to be included in any trade package for Antetokounmpo. Antetokounmpo’s salary this season is also $54.1 million.
Green played a pivotal role in the Warriors’ four championship victories in 2015, 2017, 2018, and 2022. Although his offensive statistics and shooting percentages have declined as his career progresses, he remains the team’s starting power forward at age 35 and is regarded as one of the top defenders in the league.
On Friday night, Green recorded 15 points, seven assists, and three rebounds in a 131-124 defeat against the Pistons.
Following the game, he was inquired about how much he would engage in discussions regarding his future with general manager Mike Dunleavy and controlling owner Joe Lacob ahead of the deadline. Green has a long-standing rapport with both and is frequently consulted during the final stages of significant personnel decisions.
“I’m not going to go up there and be like, ‘Yo, so tell me what y’all doing,'” Green remarked. “I’ll be the same as I always am. My phone is always on. I’m always willing to collaborate in any way I can.”
