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Warriors' Steve Kerr Addresses Draymond Green Decision

Originally posted on Athlon Sports
By Christian Alamodin | Last updated Feb 10, 2026 10:50 PM ET

Draymond Green has always been a consistent asset for the Golden State Warriors ever since breaking into the team's rotation. His regular-season numbers (8.4 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 5.1 assists this campaign) were never as eye-catching as Steph Curry's, but he's always been dependable.

Green has always been a great enforcer and a vital cog in the Warriors' offensive machine, even though his shooting efficiency has taken a nosedive over the past two seasons. However, fans may have noticed that the 35-year-old has been getting fewer minutes lately.

Steve Kerr decided to bench his long-time forward in the final minutes of two of their last three games. Green's absence was noticeable against the Phoenix Suns and Memphis Grizzlies, where he posted -1 and -17 plus-minus scores, respectively.

Given the recent stories involving the four-time NBA champion, Kerr answered questions about his coaching choice.

Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green (23)© John Hefti-Imagn Images

Steve Kerr Explains Draymond Green's Benching

After a film review session at the Chase Center on Tuesday, Kerr explained that Curry's absence from the lineup is the primary reason behind his decision to go with Al Horford at the five spot against Phoenix and Memphis.

"Al in the Phoenix game and last night was playing so well and I think without Steph, it’s easier for us to score if Al is at the five and we space the floor around him," Kerr explained, per the San Francisco Chronicle's Sam Gordon. "It’s harder to find lineup combinations without Stephen where we can play Dray at the four."

Horford has been a solid rotation option for the Dubs this season, having scored in double digits in four of his last five games.

Kerr will eventually put Green back in once Curry recovers from his right knee issue, as he's too important to the Warriors' rotation to leave out of important moments.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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