Injury Concerns Loom Over Draymond Green’s Status for Warriors’ Opening Night

Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green has been absent for the entire preseason due to an ankle injury sustained in a pickup game a week before training camp began. While the team is exercising caution, recognizing Green’s vital role, there’s growing apprehension about his readiness for the regular season opener against the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday.

According to C.J. Holmes of the San Francisco Chronicle, Green, although participating in 3-on-3 training, “still needs more work,” as stated by Warriors head coach Steve Kerr. This assessment is rather vague, and even Kerr himself is uncertain about what it implies.

With just three days left to prepare for opening night, the Warriors are relying on Green’s potential return, especially given the defensive challenge posed by the Suns, featuring stars like Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal. Green’s versatility and exceptional defensive instincts would be invaluable for the Warriors, who lack significant size to defend opposing wing players.

The preseason starting lineup, which included Chris Paul in Green’s absence, may struggle against the Suns, particularly if Paul or Stephen Curry is tasked with guarding Bradley Beal (with Klay Thompson likely covering Devin Booker and Andrew Wiggins guarding Kevin Durant). Thus, Green’s return becomes crucial for a successful start to the season.

In case Green is unable to return in time, the Warriors may distribute playing time among players like Gary Payton II (known for his defensive prowess), Jonathan Kuminga (providing an offensive boost), and possibly Dario Saric.

Fortunately, Draymond Green has expressed confidence in his healing abilities, so any absence is expected to be short-lived, if at all.