The return of head coach Steve Kerr could signal the Golden State Warriors also plan to bring back forward Draymond Green.
Kerr reportedly agreed to a two-year deal with the Warriors on Saturday. After that news broke, ESPN’s Anthony Slater shared how the move would affect Green’s future.
Why Draymond Green may return to Warriors next season
Slater noted, “It would be premature to call Green’s place on the Warriors safe next season.” The 36-year-old forward has a $27.67M player option this offseason, which he could decline or exercise before June 29. If he rejects it, the four-time champion will become an unrestricted free agent. The Warriors may also want him to activate it so they can trade him to create more cap space.
That said, Golden State still views him as a valuable contributor after averaging 8.4 points per game, 5.5 rebounds per game and 5.5 assists in 68 contests this past season.
“In that vein, team sources have indicated that they have no intention to shop Green or push him out,” wrote Slater. “On the court, they still view him as an additive winner with an elite defensive skill set that plays up when the stakes rise. Off the court, the organization felt he had a positive season as a leader, while his acumen and voice essentially make him another coach.”
Green, meanwhile, seems unsure of his plans. During an episode of his podcast on April 20, he said he’d like to remain with Golden State but expressed gratitude for Kerr in case he leaves.
“Man, if it was (his last season in Golden State), what a run it’s been,” Green said. “So lucky to have had Steve as my coach for 12 years. We shall see. Stay ready for whatever it is and roll with the punches.”
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