Draymond Green has been a key part of Golden State’s defense for the past 13 years. With “Money Green” in the paint, the Warriors have secured four championships and remain perennial contenders in the West. However, during Friday’s game against the Spurs, his duel with Victor Wembanyama raised concerns among fans.
The two-game mini-series between Golden State and San Antonio was one of the most exciting of the season. Although the Warriors won both games, the margin was so narrow that fans could only breathe a sigh of relief after the final buzzer.
At the heart of the drama was the duel between Wembanyama and Green. The rivalry reached its peak in the second game when, after Wemby attempted to posterize Green, the two faced off, forcing their teammates to separate them.
Despite being considered one of the league’s best defensive players, the veteran could barely contain the French phenom. Seeing Green’s struggles, fans are calling for him to retire.
Fans are losing patience with Green
Even Green’s tight defense barely affected Wemby’s stats. In the second game, the Spurs center contributed 26 points, four assists, and 12 rebounds. Fans on social media couldn’t ignore the numbers.
With a narrow 109-108 victory, one Warriors fan criticized Green, saying, “@Money23Green ur so *ss. Please retire, you are holding up cap space on your team,” referring to the $25.9 million the player will earn this season.
Beyond the payroll, another fan highlighted how Wembanyama completely outplayed Green. “Wemby really sonned Draymond Green, and to make it worse, Draymond had to look up at him to argue with him.”
Another fan chimed in with a chuckle, “Wemby eternally splurging over Draymond Green,” and yet another agreed, saying, “Draymond Green taking it to the paint with Wemby had me in tears.”
Green and the Warriors still have work to do
It’s unlikely the legendary forward is even considering retirement. He’s more likely focused on the upcoming games, which won’t be easy for Golden State.
This Sunday’s game against the Pelicans seems the most manageable. However, they then face the Magic, the Heat, and the Trail Blazers in a row, all high-stakes matchups.
Although fans may see Green as being in the twilight of his career, Golden State needs him more than ever. This week’s games will be a good opportunity for “Money Green” to erase the bad image left by his duel against Wemby.
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