The Golden State Warriors have experienced a tumultuous start to the 2024-25 season, moving from being a top team in a competitive Western Conference to being on the brink of missing the playoffs. Their lackluster performance has sparked worries about their roster’s ability to compete for a championship.
Draymond Green, the team’s outspoken leader, recently addressed the situation, asserting that the entire roster should be considered for trades if they don’t improve their performance and start winning.
Golden State began the season strong with a 12-3 record, setting the stage for another title run with Stephen Curry and Draymond. However, they have since faltered, currently holding a 16-15 record and sitting ninth in the Western Conference standings.
With teams like the San Antonio Spurs and Phoenix Suns nipping at their heels, the Warriors risk falling out of even the play-in tournament. This would be particularly disappointing for a team that was expected to be deep enough to contend in the playoffs. Despite their potential, things have not gone smoothly for the Warriors. Green believes that everyone needs to reflect and step outside their comfort zones, as he has done by primarily playing the center position at just 6’6″.
“We need to do whatever it takes to win, no matter what that looks like. Honestly, I didn’t want to play center so much this season. It’s challenging… I don’t enjoy it for whole games, but I love winning, and more importantly, I hate losing,” Green stated.
Players must adapt to their roles. While signing Dennis Schroder seemed promising, he has struggled to replicate his Nets performance with the Warriors. Jonathan Kuminga remains a puzzle for Steve Kerr, who is unable to define his role. Meanwhile, Brandin Podziemski is having a tough season, Buddy Hield has lost his momentum, and Curry isn’t performing at his peak levels.
Green’s call for his teammates to step up has been evident, especially in his recent comments to Hield. After reprimanding him during a game for lacking effort, Green later explained why Hield should heed his guidance.
“I’ve played a lot of important championship games; Buddy hasn’t had the chance to experience that yet. It’s our responsibility to make sure he understands its significance. If people don’t like it, that’s unfortunate. That’s why they don’t have four championships, and I do,” Green remarked.
Although the Warriors’ locker room atmosphere seems tense at the moment, there is still plenty of time for them to turn their season around, provided the front office remains patient and avoids making drastic trade moves, as suggested by Draymond.
