NBA free agency 2023: Draymond Green’s possible destinations

The basketball world was taken aback when Draymond Green, a four-time NBA champion for the Golden State Warriors, suddenly announced his decision to opt out of his contract and become a free agent in July.

At 33 years old, Green had a contract option worth $27.59 million for the next season. Considering his age, it was reasonable for the former NBA Defensive Player of the Year to seek a long-term contract. However, it is doubtful that Green will leave the team he has played for his entire career. Despite the Golden State Warrior’s loss to the Los Angeles Lakers in the Western Conference Semifinals of the 2023 NBA Playoffs, there has been talk of continuing.

It’s worth considering that certain factors in Northern California may have impacted the team’s dynamics and can influence Dray’s decision. For one, the situation with Jordan Poole at the start of the season and his eventual departure to Washington may have played a role, as well as the release of the longtime general manager Bob Myers. On top of that, the team is facing ongoing challenges related to the salary cap and luxury tax concerns.

This season, Green maintained his reputation as the universal player for the Warriors, with an average of 8.5 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 6.8 assists. Despite the team’s disappointing season, Green’s performance was consistent. With the future of the veteran player uncertain, it’s worth considering the potential teams where Green could make a significant impact. Let’s look at possible team destinations where Draymond can showcase his playing abilities to his fullest potential.

Boston Celtics

One of the best ways to enhance the team is to bring in a highly adaptable big man from the NBA. Despite some previous issues with Boston fans, Green would make an excellent addition to Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum in the Boston team. On the other hand, if Green decides to leave in free agency, Golden State could use a sign-and-trade deal to acquire assets. This could result in the Warriors getting big man Robert Williams and an additional player. In contrast, Boston gets a perfect substitute for Marcus Smart, who will play in Cleveland after nine seasons spent with the Celtics.

Dallas Mavericks

The Dallas Mavericks seem to be lacking in the vital areas where Draymond Green would be a perfect fit. While Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving are legendary scorers, their team lacks sufficient defenders and connectors. The roles on the team are somewhat unsettled, but they could be solidified if Draymond were to join forces with Doncic and Irving. Losing Jalen Brunson was a brutal blow for Mavs fans, but acquiring Green would improve the team’s performance. Similar to the roles of Nikola Jokic or Domantas Sabonis, Green would put Doncic and Irving in better positions to score, increasing the confidence of their other teammates because defensive schemes will focus on Dallas’ stars.

Los Angeles Lakers

LeBron James, a close friend and business partner of Green, will warmly welcome him to the squad. Green, James, and Anthony Davis are all represented by Klutch Sports, a sports agency founded by James’ childhood friend Rich Paul. The Los Angeles Lakers have the financial flexibility to acquire Green if they let go of D’Angelo Russell and if Green accepts a significant pay cut. Adding one of the most impactful defenders in NBA history to an already dominant Laker defense would be wise. The team, led by Anthony Davis, showed their strength after the trade deadline by making it to the Conference Finals. However, the Lakers should also consider the issue of fit. Having two non-shooters on the court during a playoff series can be challenging today’s NBA. This was evident in the Conference Finals against the Nuggets when their best perimeter defender, Jarred Vanderbilt, only played 13 minutes per game due to his limited offensive skills.

Phoenix Suns

The disagreement between Green and KD was one of the factors that led to KD leaving Golden State after the 2018-19 season. However, both players have grown since then and are now focused on winning a championship at this stage in their careers. Having just made a significant trade for Bradley Beal, Phoenix is also fully committed to this goal. They’ve received trade offers for Deandre Ayton, their not-so-consistent center. If the Suns decide to revamp their roster, Draymond Green would be an ideal addition to complement Devin Booker and Kevin Durant. Green doesn’t require the ball on offense to make an impact and can instead concentrate on his defensive responsibilities. In addition, he could be a valuable distributor and initiator off the bench for Phoenix, who struggled with this aspect in the 2023 postseason. Although Green and Durant disagreed in the past, their chemistry and relationship are solid, which is crucial for Green to join the Suns.