Draymond Green has always been straightforward about his opinions, even when they seem contradictory. Speaking recently, Green expressed that he can simultaneously respect and critique Matthew Dellavedova, the former Cleveland Cavaliers guard, reflecting on his complex view of Dellavedova’s impact during their NBA Finals encounters.
On the Pardon My Take podcast, Green revisited previous remarks where he criticized Dellavedova’s skills, openly stating the guard “stinks” while also acknowledging the significant role Dellavedova played on a Cavaliers team depleted by injuries during their championship battles against Golden State. This contradiction captures Green’s nuanced opinion on the player.
Green praises Dellavedova’s determination and basketball intelligence
Green highlighted Dellavedova’s journey from Australia to the NBA, emphasizing his unlikely rise given his lack of extraordinary athleticism and attendance at a small college, Saint Mary’s. Green pointed out Dellavedova’s exceptional work ethic and basketball IQ, which allowed him to effectively guard star Golden State player Steph Curry despite physical limitations.
I have so much respect for Matthew Delly,
Green said.
To come from Australia, go to a small college at Saint Mary’s, have zero athleticism … and yet the man was guarding the hell out of Steph Curry. That is sure will, determination, grit — a knowledge of the game that people don’t give him credit for. You can’t be that unathletic but that effective if you don’t have an extremely high basketball IQ.
This toughness and commitment, especially in the intense Finals matchups between the Cavaliers and Warriors, earned Dellavedova respect within the Warriors’ locker room despite Green’s personal criticism of his overall talent level.
Balancing respect with blunt assessment of Dellavedova’s skills
Green stated clearly that admiration and critique are not mutually exclusive. Dellavedova’s persistence and defensive intensity stand out even if Green does not see him as an elite NBA player.
I have a ton of respect for Delly because he’s so hard-nosed,
Green explained.
But both things can be true. I can have a ton of respect for him — and he stinks. That’s just what it is.
Green also pointed to Dellavedova’s lengthy NBA tenure as further evidence of his accomplishment.
What did he play, eight, nine years in the NBA?
Green added.
Come on, man. That’s incredible. That is to be respected. Make no mistake about it.
Despite continued jokes about Dellavedova’s skills, Green emphasizes that his respect is earned through grit and longevity in a highly competitive league.
How Dellavedova’s career and attitude resonate beyond the court
Dellavedova’s toughness during the Cavaliers-Warriors Finals remains a notable example of the grit required at the highest level of basketball. Green’s candid reflections reveal the complexity of evaluating athletes who bring intangible qualities beyond pure talent.
The conversation also illustrates the deep respect Warriors players hold for rivals who display relentless determination, even when their abilities do not match star standards. As Draymond Green continues to speak openly about such dynamics, discussions around players like Dellavedova remain in the spotlight.
