Winning four championships and making six NBA Finals appearances from 2015 to 2022, the Golden State Warriors are one of the most dominant dynasties in recent NBA history. Largely led by their trio of Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green, the Warriors changed the game during their peak. However, all good things must come to an end, and that is especially true for Golden State. Last season, the Warriors missed the playoffs after losing to the Sacramento Kings in the Play-In Tournament. Furthermore, this past summer, Thompson left the Warriors after 13 years with the franchise to join the Dallas Mavericks. Even before Thompson’s departure, the Warriors’ dynasty was behind them. They still have Curry and Green on the roster, but one of them may follow Thompson’s path before calling it a career.
Recently, Green spoke with Marc J. Spears of Andscape. In the interview, the Michigan State alum revealed that, while he believes he will retire in Golden State, “things change.”
“I have no reason to believe I won’t be here. But you can just never be too sure. Honestly, wholeheartedly in my heart, I believe I will finish my career here. But things change. That’s just the reality. And sometimes it’s not in your control. Sometimes it’s not in the Warriors’ control. It is just like that’s the sport. That’s the business we’re in.”
Warriors Champion Teases Possible Golden State Exit
Draymond Green’s Golden State Warriors Career
The 34-year-old has spent his entire 12-year career with the Warriors up to this point. Initially drafted in the second round, it took Green a few years to become a major contributor in Golden State. However, in his third season, Green cemented himself as one of the NBA’s best forwards. As a Warrior, the four-time champion is a four-time All-Star, a two-time All-NBA Team selection, and an eight-time All-Defensive Team selection. Additionally, he is a one-time steals champion and a one-time Defensive Player of the Year winner. At his peak, Green was one of the most dominant defensive anchors in the NBA.
The Last Word On Draymond Green and the Warriors
Heading into his 13th season in Golden State, Green still has three years remaining on his contract. This includes a $27.7 million contract for the 2026-27 season. At least for the next few seasons, it is safe to assume Green will remain in Golden State. However, as he puts it, “things change.” The Warriors are aiming to still contend for a championship and maximize the championship window they still have.
This offseason, the Warriors acquired Buddy Hield, Kyle Anderson, and De’Anthony Melton. All these players should contribute to the Warriors immediately. After winning a championship just two years ago, the Warriors have not had the same success since. In addition to last season’s Play-In loss, the Warriors got eliminated by the Los Angeles Lakers in the second round the season prior. Placed in a highly-competitive Western Conference, the Warriors will have another tough go at it this season as well. Nonetheless, as long as Curry and Green remain on the team, Golden State will always pose a threat in the West.