With the NBA trade deadline just three days away, the Golden State Warriors are at the center of the league’s biggest drama.
The crown jewel of this year’s trade rumors is none other than two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo. According to multiple reports, the Warriors are one of the teams aggressively pursuing the Greek Freak as they desperately try to reload around Steph Curry and salvage their championship window after Jimmy Butler’s devastating season-ending injury.
ESPN’s Anthony Slater dropped a major bombshell over the weekend: if Golden State lands Giannis, every player on the roster except Steph Curry is potentially available — including franchise pillar Draymond Green.
Draymond addressed the swirling rumors head-on on Friday:
“I’ve been here for 14 years. 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.”
On Monday, head coach Steve Kerr delivered the most candid and revealing comments yet, sending shockwaves through the fanbase.
“Lots of guys on our team are on edge,” Kerr admitted on 95.7 The Game. “It does feel different this year. We’re in a weird spot now with Jimmy’s injury that’s thrown everybody for a loop. It does feel like it’s a little trickier this year and there are more possibilities.”
Speaking specifically about Draymond Green, Kerr painted a poignant picture:
“[Draymond and I] have talked about the trade rumors. What’s really tricky for Draymond is this is the only place he’s ever known. He’s going to have a statue outside the building someday. It’s a really weird position for him to be in because there’s never really been a time in his entire career where he even had to think about putting on another jersey. He’s never been through this and it’s definitely been on his mind.”
Despite the tension, Kerr struck a calm and confident tone about the team’s future.
“I’d be very comfortable if we didn’t end up making any moves,” he said. “I do feel better about this year’s team than last year’s in terms of playing without Jimmy. The addition of Melton and the way Al Horford is playing — if we’re healthy, I think we can win a lot of games.”
As the clock ticks down to Thursday’s deadline, Warriors fans are left wondering: Will Draymond Green actually be traded after 14 loyal years in the Bay? Or will Golden State stand pat and bet on their current group?
The next 72 hours could reshape the Warriors franchise forever.