Draymond shows he’s on a mission in Warriors’ sweep of Pelicans

Draymond shows he’s on a mission in Warriors’ sweep of Pelicans originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

SAN FRANCISCO – After playing on successive nights and winning both games, the Warriors have about 68 hours before their next. Nobody needs it more than the oldest man on the active roster.

Draymond Green, 34, spent the past two nights polishing his leadership credentials, inspiring teammates with words Tuesday night and with deeds Wednesday night. After talking the talk, he walked the walk.

Green’s play at both ends Wednesday built a foundation that was solid enough for the wounded Warriors to complete a grinder of a 104-89 win over the equally wounded New Orleans Pelicans before a sellout crowd (18,064) at Chase Center.

“The way he battled out there, but also the way he led, his energy, talking to the team at timeouts, at halftime,” coach Steve Kerr said. “He was fantastic.”

“He’s still one of the best defenders in the world.”

Steve Kerr praises Draymond Green’s defense against Zion Williamson tonight 🚫 pic.twitter.com/DMqqzXXpRI

— Warriors on NBCS (@NBCSWarriors) October 31, 2024

It’s reasonable to believe the Warriors would not have pulled off this two-game sweep without Green’s presence.

It’s 100 percent correct to believe he’s on a mission. He wants to reenter the Defensive Player of the Year race.

“I wanted to come into the season in great shape,” Green said. “I know when I come into the season in great shape, that is the key to me having a great season, and it’s the key to this team having a great season. I spent all summer watching everyone talk about Chet [Holmgren] and Wemby [Victor Wembanyama] and what they’re doing defensively. Don’t forget about Dray. I want to be in that conversation as well, and I think I’ve the right to at least be in the conversation.

“So, every game, I’m coming out here motivated defensively to get back on the first team, All-Defense. I had a really good year last year defensively. I just didn’t play enough games. That’s a goal of mine, to get back on that team and put myself back into the Defensive Player of the Year…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/draymond-shows-hes-mission-warriors-064252947.html

Author : NBC Sports BayArea

Publish date : 2024-10-31 06:58:00

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