In a move that was obviously going to happen, Draymond Green has agreed to a 5-year, $82 million deal to stay in the Bay Area. After helping the Warriors win their first NBA Championship in 40 years, it would have been foolish for Green to even consider leaving. He is in a great situation.
Green has really evolved his game over the past three seasons. He is the perfect definition of a stat-sheet stuffer. His ability to spread the floor and find the open player really helps the motion of the Warriors offense. He actually had a triple double in the finals-clinching game six against the Cleveland Cavaliers, which is an accomplishment that not many have done. Green is arguably the heart and soul of the team on the defensive end. His toughness and will to defend really gets the team going. He is not afraid to guard the best player and will take charges when needed.
At the same time, the Warriors system is perfect for Green. If he were to go elsewhere, I do not think he would have been able to be as productive. He is very valuable to the Warriors, which is why it was smart for him to re-sign.
The only team I realistically could have seen Green leave for would be the Detroit Pistons. He played his college ball at Michigan State and would have considered going back to his home state. There is not a doubt in my mind that the Warriors were going to match any offer for the restricted free agent, though.
Green deserved to get paid. I highly recommend seeing the video of him telling his mother about the contract. It is a great story for someone who has been doubted throughout his career.
