Golden State Warriors Mailbag: Green, Trade Deadline, Playoff Matchups

Jan 31, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green (23) reacts after making a three point basket against the Phoenix Suns in the second quarter at Oracle Arena. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports

Rumors started circulating recently that Green had “significant interest” in signing an offer sheet with the Detroit Pistons after the end of this season. Green will become a restricted free agent at the conclusion of this season, and signing with the Pistons would allow Green to return to his hometown.

Despite these rumors, I severely doubt that Green will leave for Detroit for a couple reasons.

First of all, since he is a restricted free agent, the Warriors will have a chance to match any offer sheet that is sent his way. Even if Detroit makes a strong push at Green, the Warriors will match any offer that Green gets, even if it’s for an absurd amount, according to Tim Kawakami of the Bay Area News Group.

Second, Steve Kerr and the Warriors’ front office have recently described Green as the “heartbeat” of the team and that Green was “born to be a Warrior.” To the Warriors, Green is arguably the third most important player on the team, or even just as important as Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson.

The Warriors will do whatever they can to keep Green on this team, because they know how important he is to their success on the court and their NBA-best team chemistry. Green is also only 24, still developing and improving his jumpshot, has filled the much-needed role of stretch four, contributes in many different areas, and is one of the best defenders on the Warriors, so he’s worth investing in.

The Warriors understood how important Curry and Thompson were to their success, and they paid them accordingly and invested in their future. Green is next on their list, and they will do everything in their power to have him be a Warrior for life.

Next: Will the Warriors Stand Pat at the Trade Deadline?