Steve Kerr BLAMES Draymond Green for Warriors’ “compromised” season, Jordan Poole fiasco, and more
Steve Kerr Addresses Trust Issues and Draymond Green's Future with the Warriors
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In a stunning turn of events, the Golden State Warriors fell short in their search to repeat as NBA champions this season. Despite having essentially the same roster that had brought them success in the previous year, something was clearly missing. Head coach Steve Kerr identified a shift in the locker room dynamic as the key factor behind their failure, pointing to spoiling of trust between teammates that stemmed from a preseason incident involving Draymond Green and Jordan Poole.
Kerr, acknowledged the impact of the incident during a recent press conference. He highlighted the compromised trust and respect resulting from Green’s altercation with Poole, emphasizing that the team would need to focus on rebuilding those crucial elements in the upcoming season.
“[Trust] was lost this year for sure. There’s no hiding from it. The incident with Draymond and Jordan at the beginning of the year played a role in that. It’s hard for that not to impact a team,” Kerr said. “We feel like we have a great group of people on the roster, on the coaching staff, in the front office. We have a way of doing things that we’re very proud of. But those things were definitely challenged this year. Any time some trust is lost, then it makes the process much more difficult. And there was some trust lost, and that’s as blunt as I can be.”
The breach of trust caused by the incident had a visible effect on the Warriors’ interpersonal dynamics throughout the season. Kerr admitted that trust was indeed lost and could not be hidden. The team, which prided itself on having a great group of people, coaching staff, and front office, faced significant challenges as a result. Loss of trust makes the process of achieving success much more difficult.
Draymond Green’s Future with the Warriors Hangs in the Balance
While Kerr was critical of Green’s actions, he equally emphasized the importance of the superstar to the Warriors’ success. Without hesitation, Kerr stated that Green’s return was essential for the team to contend for another championship. Green’s defensive ability and competitive spirit make him a key player in the team, and his unique relationship with Kerr further underscores his significance.
However, the decision ultimately rests with Green himself. The forward holds a player option for the final year of his $99.7 million contract, and he has been vocal about his desire for a long-term extension. If he chooses to opt out and test free agency, Green will undoubtedly attract multiple suitors given his track record as a facilitator and defender.
“If Draymond’s not back, we’re not a championship contender. We know that. He’s that important to winning and to who we are. So I absolutely want him back,” Kerr said. “He’s a competitor, he’s an incredible defensive player, we can check all those boxes. And he and I have built a really special relationship that has run the gamut over the years. We’ve had our share of run-ins, but we’ve been through so much, we really care about each other and work together well.”
Kerr added:
“I want him back, I think we all want him back, and hopefully that’s exactly what happens and we get ready to make another run next year.”
At 33 years old with 11 seasons under his belt, Green’s offensive production has declined, occasionally making him a liability on that end of the court. Nevertheless, his defensive abilities earned him Second-Team All-NBA Defensive Honors for the 2022-23 season. The chemistry between Green and the team’s star player, Steph Curry, is also a crucial factor in the decision-making process.
Considering the financial implications, the Warriors face a significant payroll and luxury tax bill exceeding $400 million if they retain every player at their scheduled salary cap numbers. It remains uncertain whether the team’s ownership group is willing to commit to such a substantial financial burden or if they prefer to take a step back in terms of talent in order to avoid it.
The future of both Green and Poole is uncertain, with Poole potentially being on the trade block if the franchise decides to prioritize retaining Green. Poole, who signed a four-year extension worth $128 million last offseason, is set to join the team next fall. Meanwhile, Klay Thompson, despite a disappointing end to the playoffs, is expected to be re-signed, potentially at a discounted rate.
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Vivek Yadav
(624 Articles Published)