The Golden State Warriors are in the midst of another challenging season at 17-16, clinging to playoff positioning in a loaded Western Conference. While Stephen Curry remains elite at 37, the supporting cast—including Draymond Green—has shown signs of decline. Green, a Warriors legend in his 14th season, has slipped offensively (a virtual non-threat scoring-wise) and defensively (no longer the dominant force he once was). His on-court antics continue, culminating in a recent blow-up with head coach Steve Kerr that saw him leave the bench for the locker room mid-game before returning to sit out the rest.
Both sides have since smoothed things over publicly, but the incident underscores a growing reality: Green’s fiery personality and declining production make him increasingly expendable as the Warriors chase one final title run with Curry.
The Anthony Davis Trade Buzz
NBA insider Chris Haynes reported the Warriors’ longstanding interest in Anthony Davis from the Dallas Mavericks. To match Davis’ massive salary, Golden State would likely need to include Green ($25.9 million this season) along with Jonathan Kuminga or Jimmy Butler. Butler seems untouchable, leaving Green and Kuminga as the logical pieces.
Dallas reportedly isn’t keen on taking back Green, but they’re open to moving Davis. This opens the door for multi-team scenarios where Green could be rerouted.
Potential Landing Spots for Green
If the Warriors pursue a big swing (Davis or otherwise), finding a third team for Green is key. Here are the most intriguing options:
Detroit Pistons The East leaders could use Green’s championship experience, elite passing, and defensive IQ. As a Michigan native and Michigan State alum, the sentimental fit is perfect. Detroit has young talent and picks to facilitate a deal—giving Golden State cover to move a franchise icon.Chicago Bulls The Bulls need frontcourt playmaking and defense. Green’s expiring-level production fits their timeline, and they have multiple expiring contracts for salary matching.Milwaukee Bucks In a blockbuster for Giannis Antetokounmpo (if he becomes available), Green’s salary could be pivotal. A hypothetical package: Green, Kuminga, Buddy Hield, and four first-round picks.
The Bigger Picture for Golden State
Green’s trade value is murky—his production doesn’t match his salary, but his intangibles (leadership, IQ) still hold weight for contenders. The Warriors have few salary-matching options beyond Green, Butler, and Kuminga, making him a likely piece in any major trade.
Kerr and the front office must weigh sentiment vs. competitiveness. Green’s antics and decline are no longer offset by All-NBA-level play. With Curry’s window closing, a move that brings in a star big (Davis) or resets the roster could be necessary—even if it means saying goodbye to a dynasty cornerstone.
Warriors fans: It’s painful, but the writing is on the wall. If a win-now upgrade requires moving Green, the front office should pull the trigger. The dynasty’s final chapter needs a spark.