Draymond Green is the last man standing of the Golden State Warriors’ dynasty, and head coach Steve Kerr can see the toll that it is taking on him.
Addressing the media this weekend after a loss to the Detroit Pistons, Kerr commented on the former Defensive Player of the Year’s energy level.
“I think the last couple of games, he’s looked tired,” said Kerr, per Anthony Slater of The Athletic. “You have to remember that he’s the lone holdover from the team that’s been to the Finals five years in a row. He looks tired to me.
“I think he’s kind of worn out, emotionally and physically,” Kerr added.
Green, who is one of the most energetic and emotional players in the league, was ejected in the third quarter against Detroit for mocking an official and walked straight to the locker room unceremoniously. He is listed as out for Monday’s game against the Sacramento Kings with a sprained right ankle.
The Warriors’ deep postseason runs of the last half-decade have indeed put significant tread on Green’s tires — he appeared in 100, 104, 93, 91, and 88 games over the past five years, including playoff action. The three-time All-Star has also tacked on another 27 games this season.
While Green insists that he has not yet hit his peak, he will turn 30 in March, and the wear-and-tear is slowly becoming apparent.
