Draymond Green took several steps backwards in terms of production last season and him returning at least to something resembling his form from the 2014-18 period will be essential for the Golden State Warriors, who enter a new era with little depth.
Green missed 14 games last season with a lingering toe injury and posted his worst numbers since becoming the starting power forward for the Dubs in 2014.
He averaged 7.4 points, 7.3 rebounds, 6.9 assists, 1.4 steals and 1.1 blocks in 31.3 minutes per game over 66 games, shooting 44.5 percent overall and a dreadful 28.5 percent on 2.5 3-point attempts per game.
Green is an important piece for the Warriors because of his ability to defend all over the floor at 6-foot-7 and 230 pounds and he was Defensive Player of the Year as recently as two seasons ago, before the reign of Rudy Gobert began.
Green is also a five-time All-Defensive selection and a two-time All-NBA performer, so he can still have a big impact.
But last season, his role as a playmaker within Golden State’s system was hampered by a career-worst 26.8 percent turnover rate. But there is still no denying his impact — the Warriors were 7.8 points better per 100 possessions with Green on the floor.
Given the changes to the roster this season, Green’s impact will likely be even more important. Gone are bench stalwarts Shaun Livingston and Andre Iguodala, while Kevin Durant got most of the headlines when he opted to sign with the Brooklyn Nets.
Throw in Klay Thompson likely missing at least the first four months recovering from the ACL tear sustained in Game 6 of the NBA Finals and the Warriors are in some flux.
Green could end up at the 3, at least temporarily, with former two-way player Alfonzo McKinnie currently atop the depth chart there.
But his point-forward work will be vital to Golden State not careening down the Western Conference standings.