The Golden State Warriors got a massive blow on Monday night when the news broke that Draymond Green was opting out of the final year of his contract.
While this wasn’t exactly unexpected, you never want to be in a position to lose one of the best players in franchise history.
But opting out doesn’t necessarily mean that he’s set to leave, and the Warriors could still work things out with him financially.
With that in mind, Stephen A. Smith believes the Warriors shouldn’t even hesitate to give Draymond another $100 or $120 million.
.@stephenasmith says Draymond Green is "easily" worth another $100M 👀
"$100-$120M in today's NBA economy, with KAT signing for $250M and they ain't win a damn thing? I don't want to hear that Dryamond Green ain't worth that money. You're damn right he's worth that money." pic.twitter.com/amxG8TWjTL
— First Take (@FirstTake) June 20, 2023
He believes Green isn’t going to demand a max contract — even though he could — citing that he could be “good” with something close to $30 million a year for the next three or four years.
Smith pointed out the importance of Green as their energy guy, facilitator, and leader.
He also praised him for his outstanding basketball IQ, citing that he’s one of the most intelligent players in the history of the game.
Last but not least, Smith talked about the synergy that he’s developed with Klay Thompson and mainly with Stephen Curry, up to the point where he can throw no-look passes knowing where Steph is going to be at all times.
Smith says that Curry — who he calls the greatest shooter of all time — has often benefited from Green’s playmaking, as he’s allowed him to catch the basketball in rhythm before pulling up.
As things stand now, it doesn’t seem like they can afford to lose Green right now.
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