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Jeff Teague points out Draymond Green issue and star Warriors must sign to fix it

Originally posted on HITC | By Aikansh Chaudhary | Last updated Sep 1, 2025 9:11 AM ET

The Golden State Warriors have made small-ball lineups a signature part of their success over the years.

Rather than using a traditional centre, the system slots a forward into that spot, changing the dynamic of how teams are used to matching up.

It is not without its downsides, especially when it comes to rim protection and size in the paint. But what it gives back in speed, spacing and ball movement often outweighs those trade-offs.

For Golden State, Draymond Green has been central to that approach under Steve Kerr. However, many believe his time in that role may be coming to an end.

Jeff Teague says it is time to say goodbye to Draymond Green in a small-ball lineup

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Throughout the 2024-25 season, Draymond Green frequently filled in at centre. But until Jimmy Butler arrived, the Warriors’ approach was not finding much success.

On the Club 520 podcast, former NBA player Jeff Teague stated his belief that Golden State should move Green back to his natural power forward spot.

“I think they’ve got to get a big, with that small ball lineup. I’m a fan of Draymond, but I just don’t think that’s going to hold up anymore.

“He can’t guard [Nikola] Jokic and all them dudes for a long period of time. There’s too many people out West. But I just don’t think that can hold up anymore.”

To put it into perspective, Jokic averaged 32.5 points, 14 rebounds and 12.5 assists per game in his matchups against Green during the season.

Jeff Teague sees Nikola Vucevic trade as positive move for Warriors

Regarding that, Teague also proposed a solution for the Warriors, suggesting they trade for Nikola Vucevic of the Chicago Bulls.

“If they got a Vucevic or somebody, then I could, like, dang, they might make a push. Even though Vucevic is not a good defender or anything, he’s a capable scorer.

“But then they got, like, a backup big that could guard a little bit.”

Vucevic is not known for his defence, but his ability to contribute points could free up Green to focus more on defensive assignments.

The plan would only be complete if Golden State finds someone reliable behind him. Kevon Looney’s departure has left a gap that still needs filling.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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