Draymond Green has been ranked as the 30th-best player in the NBA. The veteran forward’s defensive IQ and leadership qualities have clearly outweighed his perceived offensive shortcomings. Last season, Green averaged 8.5 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 6.8 assists per game but struggled from the perimeter, converting 30.5% of his 3-point attempts.
However, that hasn’t deterred CBS Sports, who placed Green four spots higher than they had him last season in their early top-100 player rankings. Here’s what CBS had to say about Green and why they ranked him among the top 30 players for the upcoming season:
Buy Warriors Tickets“Though his 2022-23 season didn’t start off on the brightest of notes, Green turned in another stellar year of defensive wizardry and playmaking acumen. It’s hard to quantify what he brings to the Warriors, but Steve Kerr has said many times that he’s absolutely vital to their success. That bears out in the numbers, as the Warriors’ net rating improved by a team-best 12.2 points per 100 possessions last season with Green on the floor. His leadership, intensity, communication and skill make him one of the most uniquely valuable players in the league.”
Green has recently signed a four-year $100 million deal to remain with the Warriors until deep into his thirties. It’s clear that Mike Dunleavy and the front office value what the veteran champion brings to the table, especially as his skillset is unlikely to decline with age.
With the recent addition of Chris Paul, Golden State has added even more veteran leadership to their rotation. Between Green, Steph Curry, Klay Thompson, and the veteran guard, there should be enough big voices within the locker room to ensure Golden State remains on track throughout the season en route to a deep playoff run.
