
The Golden State Warriors have remained competitive early in the Western Conference, but concern is beginning to mount over the team’s depth and overall ceiling given its aging core.
One of the central figures in that discussion is forward Draymond Green, who has long orchestrated the Warriors’ defense throughout his 14-year NBA career.
The 35-year-old veteran has collected four All-Star selections, two All-NBA honors, nine All-Defensive team nods and one Defensive Player of the Year award, cementing his reputation as one of the most impactful defenders of his generation. Green’s effectiveness stems from his defensive intelligence, anticipation and versatility.
He reads plays before they develop, communicates constantly with teammates and thrives in switching schemes that demand adaptability. His toughness and physicality consistently disrupt opponents, while his leadership sets the tone for Golden State’s identity.
Offense has never been his calling card, yet his playmaking remains critical. Through his first 30 appearances this season, he has averaged 8.4 points, 5.9 rebounds, 5.4 assists and 0.9 steals per game while shooting 42.2% from the field and 32.6% from beyond the arc.
During Monday’s narrow 103–102 road loss to the Los Angeles Clippers, Green battled through multiple injury setbacks.
At halftime, he was diagnosed with a rib injury but still finished the contest. Afterward, he admitted, “I’m beat the [expletive] up right now. But I’ll be all right on Wednesday,” he told ESPN’s Anthony Slater.
He explained, “I crashed into the bench and knocked the rib out. Then right after that, I rolled my ankle and fell on it, hurt my left wrist. It’s just an accumulation of this game.”
On Tuesday, Golden State announced its official injury report for Wednesday’s matchup against the Milwaukee Bucks, listing Green as questionable with a left ankle sprain (h/t Joseph Dycus of Mercury News).
INJURY UPDATE: Warriors list Draymond Green and Gary Payton II as questionable with left ankle injuries ahead of game against Bucks. pic.twitter.com/iuRDoXWr0P
— Joseph Dycus (@joseph_dycus) January 7, 2026
There was no mention of his ribs or wrist, suggesting those may be lesser concerns. Green expressed optimism about being available, but his status remains uncertain.
Regardless, keeping Green healthy is essential for the Warriors. He is a cornerstone of Golden State’s aging dynasty, alongside superstar Stephen Curry and head coach Steve Kerr, helping lead the franchise to four NBA championships.
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