The Golden State Warriors are expected to be active at this year’s trade deadline, and it appears they could be parting ways with a very familiar face. Draymond Green has reportedly been involved in trade discussions.
“The Golden State Warriors have involved Draymond Green in active trade conversations in advance of Thursday's deadline, league sources told ESPN, putting his 14-season run with the franchise in jeopardy. General manager Mike Dunleavy and controlling owner Joe Lacob have maintained a motivation to get a trade for Giannis Antetokounmpo across the finish line and, as part of that, Green's name has been involved in the framework of available offers to the Milwaukee Bucks, league sources said,” ESPN’s Anthony Slater wrote.
Green isn’t oblivious to the swirling trade rumors. After Golden State’s game on Tuesday night, he was asked how he feels about the situation.
“I think a lot of people want to know how I feel about it, like am I upset about it," Green said. "I'm not at all. If that's what's best for this organization, that's what's best for the organization."
One team showing significant interest in Green is the Los Angeles Lakers. Even if a deal doesn’t happen at the deadline, the summer could still present an opportunity for the pairing.
“The Lakers and Draymond Green have mutual interest in a future partnership, per WindhorstESPN. Whether it be now, if the Warriors traded for Giannis Antetokounmpo, or in the summer entering into an expiring contract, Los Angeles plans to express interest in acquiring Green,” NBA reporter Evan Sidery wrote.
The Lakers are looking to improve their roster in every way possible with Luka Doncic as the franchise cornerstone. Green would provide excellent defensive support for Doncic and be a key presence on that side of the floor.
The Warriors are likely to move Green now if a major deal can be struck. Having spent his entire career in Golden State, Green may soon be taking his talents to Los Angeles, potentially joining the Lakers as the next stop for the four-time champion.