"Usually when Draymond has a lot on the line, he performs" - Bob Myers opens up on Draymond Green's looming contract situation
Golden State Warriors veteran forward Draymond Green finds himself in a complicated situation regarding his contract with the team going forward. With Green having to fight for his contract, Warriors GM Bob Myers suggested that the forward would perform better this season.
The Golden State Warriors haven't been against the idea of spending a lot of money to retain the key pieces on their roster. With signings such as Steph Curry and Klay Thompson that exceeded the $200 million mark, the Warriors have only added to their spending list.
The Dubs recently offered multiyear contract extensions to rising stars Jordan Poole and Andrew Wiggins. While this successfully locks the two in for multiple seasons alongside Curry and Thompson, the Dubs face a predicament going forward.
By virtue of handing out so many expensive contracts, the Warriors are deep into luxury tax territory. However, the team will face an emerging as Draymond Green is due for an extension soon.
The value Draymond Green holds with the team is reflected in their postseason success. After building a dynasty with the Warriors, Green has been vital in bringing four titles to the Bay Area.
In light of recent events involving Poole, Green found himself in a complicated spot regarding his place in the team going forward. With rumors surrounding his looming contract gaining more traction as well, the forward is certain to face some amount of duress.
However, Warriors GM Bob Myers was of the opinion that this situation would help Draymond Green step up his game further. In a recent press conference, Myers spoke on the matter when he said:
"Draymond's in a great spot. He's got a player-option. It's a great position for a player to be in. You control your own destiny. We gave Wiggins one. We reluctantly give those. Those are very powerful things for players, so he's in a great spot."
"I think he's excited about the year and he wants to win another championship. He sees the opportunity in front of him but I don't sense any issues there. I imagine he's going to have a fantastic year and I actually think he will have a great year."
"He's got a lot on the line. Usually when Draymond has a lot on the line, he performs."
Draymond Green signed his latest contract extension following the 2019-20 season. With the potential to become an unrestricted free agent following the 2023-24 season, Green will attempt to highlight his value to the team in hopes of seeing the Dubs make some moves to retain him.
The Golden State Warriors may not re-up on Draymond Green
Much of the chatter surrounding the Draymond Green-Jordan Poole situation has suggested that this altercation was the last nail in the coffin for Green. Having drawn most of the criticism for getting physical with Poole, several rumors suggested that the Golden State Warriors would move away from the forward.
While the decision itself remains up for speculation, the Dubs have attempted to put systems in place for the future. With the development of players such as Moses Moody, James Wiseman and Jonathan Kuminga, the Warriors could hope to fill in for Green's absence.
Unfortunately, for the Warriors, attempting to do this is easier said than done. Draymond Green's value to the team at this point is beyond vital. As the heart and soul of the side, he brings more to the floor than just his playmaking and defense.
In light of certain rumors also suggesting that Green has shown interest in joining a team such as the Lakers after his contract is up, the Dubs have a lot of matters to address.