Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green shared his thoughts on the Kristaps Porzingis trade following the team’s 101-97 comeback victory against the Phoenix Suns on Thursday at the Mortgage Matchup Center. The acquisition of Porzingis marks a pivotal moment for the Warriors as they aim to strengthen their roster.
Challenges of Losing Teammates and Team Resilience
Green acknowledged the difficult reality of the business, noting the loss of three players with whom he had close ties.
“It’s been a weird 24 hours… you lose two guys, actually three guys, that you have relationships with. But that is the business we’re in,”
he said. Despite being short-handed and trailing by 14 points in the fourth quarter, Green praised his teammates’ grit.
“Short-handed, down 14 in the fourth quarter, guys continue to fight and come out with a big-time win… says a lot about the character of the group.”
Porzingis’ Role and Defensive Advantages
Green expressed enthusiasm for Porzingis’ fit in Golden State’s lineup, emphasizing how his size and shooting ability fill a vital role the team has been seeking.
“I like it… adding more size, more rim protection, more shooting. Porzingis, switch guards on him, he really punishes him… He was the missing piece to a Boston championship.”
On the defensive end, Green explained how having another rim protector like Porzingis enhances his own defensive play.
“For me personally, I love when there’s another rim protector on the floor… it unlocks everything I can do defensively. If you just take off, you break the scheme. With another rim protector, you can take those chances.”
Synergy Between Porzingis and Horford
Green highlighted the complementary skills of Porzingis and Al Horford, both known for their basketball IQ and versatility.
“Both of those guys are smart. They can shoot, protect the rim, guard smaller guys, guard bigger guys… if you switch on him, he just throws it to shooters. That changes an offense.”
Reflections on Kuminga’s Departure and Mentorship
Discussing Jonathan Kuminga’s trade to Atlanta, Green expressed hope that the team’s guidance helped him mature professionally.
“I hope we’ve been good mentors and taught him how to be a pro… the same mistakes he was making two, three years ago, he doesn’t make now. I hope he relishes the opportunity.”
Focus on Playoff Ambitions Amid Season Challenges
Looking ahead to the remainder of the season, Green stressed the team’s determination.
“Our goal is to win games, give ourselves a shot at the playoffs… You give yourself a chance, and that’s the skill most of the NBA doesn’t have. We know how to do it.”
His comments reveal how Golden State plans to maintain momentum in a tough Western Conference.
Gui Santos’ Development Boosts Team Depth
Green also praised the progress of young player Gui Santos, who secured more playing time through hustle and rebounding, and has demonstrated improved scoring ability.
“What got him on the floor was hustle plays and offensive rebounds… now you see what he can do with the ball, how he can shoot, how he can finish around the rim… it’s beautiful to watch.”
Comeback Win Highlights Team’s Determination
The Warriors overcame a 14-point deficit in the final quarter; De’Anthony Melton tied the game with a layup and Gui Santos gave Golden State the lead with a fast-break score late in the game. Pat Spencer led the team with a career-high 20 points, while Melton contributed 17 points, and Green added five points, five rebounds, and seven assists. Porzingis is expected to arrive in Los Angeles on Friday but is unlikely to play against the Lakers on Saturday. This win improved Golden State’s record to 28-24, keeping them competitive in the playoff race.
