Golden State Warriors Mailbag: Holiday, Green, Trades

By Maggie Pilloton | Jan 16, 2015

3 of 4

Dec 14, 2014; New Orleans, LA, USA; Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green (23) reacts after scoring in overtime of a game against the New Orleans Pelicans at the Smoothie King Center. The Warriors defeated the Pelicans 128-122 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

@MaggiePilloton what happens when Draymond needs a max contract at the end of the season and we can't afford it cause of Speights??
— كَمَال (@97Kamal) January 15, 2015

Another good question! Given the fact that Draymond Green is fluorishing as a starter and is having a breakout season, one of the main questions on the minds of Warriors fans recently has been about if the Warriors will give Green a contract extension and what kind of money he deserves. When a team has a 31-5 record, this is the kind of question that is raised instead of more serious questions about the team structure or ownership. Feels nice, right?

Back to the question. I do agree with the point that the Warriors might have trouble handing Green a max contract, not because he isn’t worthy of one but because of other large contracts on the team. However, Speights’ contract isn’t the problematic one. Speights is set to make $3.815 million in the 2015-16 season, which isn’t much at all considering some other players’ contracts.

More from Golden State Warriors

If the Warriors decide that giving Green a max contract is the highest priority, then the Warriors will have to find a way to get rid of hefty contracts such as Lee’s or Iguodala’s, especially if they want to stay out of the luxury tax. Joe Lacob has always had the philosophy that Warriors management should not be afraid to spend money, when it’s needed, but going into the luxury tax is a more serious matter.

The Warriors organization clearly appreciates Green and his value on this team, and they’ll make re-signing Green one of their top priorities. How much will he command though, and how highly sought after will he be? That’s the question.

Given many NBA teams’ desire for a stretch four, Green will definitely be a hot commodity. In addition to that, Green is an incredible defender, on the ball and in help situations. He has great anticipation, great instincts, and he is a relentless and aggressive rebounder. Green can do a little bit of everything and do it well too.

In addition, he’s a leader, he’s a spark of energy, and he adds a lot to the Warriors’ league-best team chemistry.

Green’s value is most likely around $8 million per season, but that number might get driven up because of others teams’ interest.

The Warriors would have trouble finding another player that provides Green’s value on both offense and defense. They will find a way to re-sign Green, but it will be tough, given the fact that the Warriors will most likely have to trade away a key player such as Iguodala or Lee.

Next: Will the Warriors Make a Trade?

Home/Golden State Warriors