Facing elimination in Game 5 of the Western Conference semifinals on Wednesday, the Golden State Warriors came out in impressive fashion and survived for at least one more contest with a 121-106 win over the Los Angeles Lakers.
In particular, Draymond Green led the way with 20 points, 10 rebounds, four assists, two steals, and one blocked shot, and he played with plenty of gusto.
His performance put him on a very exclusive list in terms of the most playoff double-doubles among active NBA players.
He is the only active player other than LeBron James to have at least 60 such games.
Active players with 60+ playoff double-doubles:
— LeBron James
— Draymond GreenThat’s the list. pic.twitter.com/JCMTeaNBze
— StatMuse (@statmuse) May 11, 2023
Curry may be the Warriors’ best player and one of the all-time greats, but Green has always been their heart and soul in many ways.
He is one of their main ball-handlers, especially in transition, not to mention one of their best rebounders and facilitators and their defensive ace.
Green is also the spiritual and emotional leader of the defending champs, and since everything rises and falls on leadership, one cannot overstate his importance to his team.
Golden State still trails in the series, 3-2, and they still face an uphill climb, as they will have to win Game 6 in Southern California in order to extend the series once again.
The team has had trouble winning on the road all season, and it has historically had trouble shooting straight at Crypto.com Arena.
If the Warriors end up losing this series, it could mean the end of their dynasty, as Green can turn down his player option for next season and become a free agent this summer, and there has been plenty of speculation that this will be his last season in the Bay.
NEXT: Draymond Green Admits That Former College Coach Motivated Him In Game 5 Win
