Draymond Green, a highly esteemed figure from the Tom Izzo era at Michigan State, is poised to potentially move on to a different NBA team.
The NBA champion and longstanding cornerstone of the Golden State Warriors reportedly intends to decline his player option for the 2023-24 season, entering unrestricted free agency. This decision was expected from Green, as he foregoes $27.5 million in pursuit of a long-term contract in the open market. The news was first reported by Shams Charania of The Athletic.
According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, the Warriors are “motivated” to secure Green’s services with a new deal, aiming to retain the player they drafted back in 2012. However, with Green opting out of his current agreement, he gains the ability to explore sign-and-trade scenarios and engage in discussions with other teams during free agency.
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Standing at 6-foot-6, Green showcased solid contributions for the Warriors last season, averaging 8.5 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 6.8 assists per game. He achieved a career-best shooting percentage of 52.7% from the field.
Throughout his impressive 11-year career, Green has remained a loyal member of the Warriors in the Bay Area. He boasts an impressive resume, including 4 NBA championships, 4 All-Star selections, 8 appearances in the All-Defensive Team, and the title of Defensive Player of the Year for the 2016-17 season. Initially chosen as the 35th overall pick in the second round of the 2012 NBA Draft, Green has never played for another team.
During his time at Michigan State, Green excelled as a consensus All-American and earned the title of Big Ten Player of the Year in the 2011-12 season.
Green’s agent informed ESPN that they will continue to discuss with the Golden State Warriors while exploring all available options.