Warriors’ Playoff Preparation: Draymond Green’s Role

PLAYA VISTA — Draymond Green, who previously brushed off the Warriors’ play-in situation as “not that exciting,” seems to have shifted gears significantly over the last few days.

“That was last week,” coach Steve Kerr remarked, smiling. “Draymond is really enthusiastic now.”

The nine-time All-Defensive player took an active role in getting ready for Wednesday’s home play-in game against the Clippers. Green has always had a sharp basketball mind, and he’s never hesitated to share his thoughts, both in public and during practices.

“Maybe I did talk a little too much,” Green chuckled.

The Warriors will rely on Green to help contain Kawhi Leonard, who was a standout for the Clippers when they faced off in March. Green has acknowledged the challenge ahead as they prepare for this crucial play-in game.

“This version of Kawhi we’re seeing now,” Green noted, “…is reminiscent of the Kawhi we faced in the NBA Finals seven years ago.”

Back then, Leonard averaged 28.5 points and 9.8 rebounds, playing a pivotal role in the Raptors’ surprising victory over Golden State. Currently, Leonard is scoring a career-best 27.9 points per game, marking a remarkable shooting performance.

Crucially, he’s managed to stay healthy, appearing in 65 games this season, which is significant given his history. Both Green and Leonard should be well-rested heading into Wednesday’s make-or-break game, having skipped Sunday’s inconsequential final matchup of the regular season.

“I always tell my players Kawhi is an extraordinary talent. If he can hit 50 percent of his shots, but I can make him miss one extra, then I’ve done my job,” Green explained. “As a defender, it’s about making things a bit tougher for him.”

Green recognized the need for a “full team effort,” admitting that “no one can fully stop Kawhi.” However, he will be tasked with taking on a significant part of that responsibility, especially since the Warriors recently lost two athletic wings, Jimmy Butler and Moses Moody, to season-ending knee injuries.

Supporting a superstar like Leonard is a somewhat different role for Green now. Once a small-ball center leading the famed “death lineup” during the Warriors’ peak, he’s adapting to new team dynamics.

There’s an unusual roster balance that hasn’t been common for the Warriors in recent times. With players like Kristaps Porzingis and Al Horford, the team has a combination of size and skill that gives Kerr flexibility in tactics.

“He fortifies our defense in the paint,” Kerr noted.

While it’s uncommon for all three key players to be on the court simultaneously, the presence of both Porzingis and Horford should allow them to consistently cover the paint, enabling Green to stay close to Leonard.

Porzingis mentioned that his defensive agility isn’t quite where he wants it yet, admitting, “I just need to lose a few pounds, to be honest.” Still, at 7 feet 2, he brings a significant size advantage. The Clippers have opted for a smaller lineup after trading Ivica Zubac.

“My height is still there,” he reflected, “I just need to anticipate and make the right reads. I can definitely be there for my teammates.”

Containing Kawhi is just one aspect of the Warriors’ immediate challenges. Darius Garland, a jittery scoring guard, also poses a threat. Since Garland joined the Clippers in the trade that sent James Harden away, both have had a staggering usage rate exceeding 50%.

De’Anthony Melton, who shares minutes alongside Garland, praised Green’s preparation for this matchup.

“It’s noticeable,” Melton remarked about Green’s intensity. “This is my first time alongside them, so it’s enlightening to witness their disciplined game plan and strategic mindset. A vocal leader like Green is crucial for us.”

And Green has certainly been vocal.

“Oh, well,” Kerr commented. “This is my favorite time with Draymond. He’s focused, leading discussions about our strategies. He’s been exceptional.”

In a coach-like role, Green shared that he’s “possibly a little too close to Steve.” His goal is to ensure that no detail goes overlooked during extensive film sessions.

“I aim to provide a fresh perspective for our coaching staff,” he explained. “When you’re watching endless film, fatigue can set in. There might be something they overlook that could cost us a bucket. One bucket can be pivotal.”

But Green isn’t the only key player in the Warriors’ locker room.

Stephen Curry, with the number 30 on his back, is also vital.

“The advantage of being a superstar like Steph means he doesn’t have to maintain the same level of focus every game I do,” Green said. “But as playoff time approaches, his focus is on another level. He becomes more vocal, positions players effectively, and forecasts actions. His presence can be a calming influence.”

After the Warriors concluded the regular season, Curry was asked how having Green on his side would elevate the team’s morale for the postseason.

“I’ve had that confidence for… 14 years,” he responded, nodding vigorously.

“When you present him with particular challenges—whether it’s a matchup or a must-win scenario—it brings out the best in all of us,” Curry further commented. “When he’s had time to prepare for a matchup, it’s like a game of chess he relishes. That competitive spirit is what defines his career.”