After serving 17 games in suspension last season, all thanks to his rash behavior, Draymond Green faced criticism for behavior that some felt hurt the Warriors. Yet, his resilience and leadership have shone through, with Coach Steve Kerr affirming Green’s role as the team’s “leader”. Now, he’s more committed than ever to energizing the Warriors.

Reflecting on last season’s absences, Green admitted his suspensions impacted the Warriors. Now, after focusing on self-improvement, he’s back as the “battery” for the Bay. New teammate Buddy Hield, who’s shared the court with Green in just seven games, quickly noticed why Green’s influence is crucial to the Warriors.

“He’s the heartbeat of this team and he’s just a joy to be around. You know, I think especially what they put out there is always outside noise. Until you really get there, be there in person and get to feel their vibe, their energy. Nah, like he’s one of the best dudes on this team,” the sharpshooter told Jim Rowe.

In the few games he’s played alongside Green, Hield has seen career-best numbers, averaging 21.9 points per game. Green’s leadership and defensive support have played a key role in Hield’s success as he steps up in the void that’s left behind with Klay Thompson’s absence.

Green’s playmaking abilities have bolstered Hield’s performance, delivering nine assists to him—the highest he’s received from any Warriors player. But Green’s intensity also makes him a challenging opponent, impacting games on both defense and offense, as Hield noted on The Jim Rowe Show. “You don’t want to play against him because he’s that forceful on the court. He impacts the game on the defensive end so much and offensive because him and Steph,” he said.

The real impact Draymond Green has on the Warriors

Under Steve Kerr’s rotation, Green has become invaluable as both a facilitator and defensive anchor. In 190 minutes on the court, the Warriors are 60 points better, averaging the highest assists and shooting 44% from three. The 34-year-old’s presence enhances the team’s stability and floor spacing, the key to Kerr’s strategy.

Surprisingly, the Warriors maintain a strong 6-1 record without Green, though his absence impacts their play. When Green is off the court, their three-point shooting plummets to 32.3%, revealing his crucial role in organizing the team’s offense.

Though Green has only been off the court for 39 fewer minutes than his playing time, the Warriors average 37 fewer assists and have a lower assist/turnover ratio without him. These numbers underscore Green’s integral role, even if his contributions aren’t always obvious in traditional stats.

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That’s why there’s no surprise when the Warriors players exemplify Green’s impact. He makes the game for everyone around easy by becoming the fulcrum and doing the minor jobs most players wouldn’t be intrigued by. Without him, the Bay fell off last season. And it’s evident that with him on the court this season, the Warriors are elite.