Draymond Green struggled to hit his stride during his return to action for the Golden State Warriors on Friday night, going 0-for-3 from the field in 18 minutes during his team’s humiliating 123-98 loss to the Portland Trail Blazers.
Initially, the Warriors expected Green to provide them with the defensive edge that they have so far been lacking. Due to a combination of COVID-19, a foot injury, and a desire to condition himself and get back into form, Green missed all four regular-season games prior to the game with the Trail Blazers. What’s more, he missed all three pre-season games and the majority of the Warriors’ training camp.
Following his side’s bitter defeat, coach Steve Kerr made the following remarks about Green’s performance: “Draymond just looks like he’s getting his wind. He looked like a guy who missed training camp and has been working his way to get onto the floor.”
Kerr further explained that his remarks were in no way criticism, but instead, a reflection on someone who has not yet hit his physical peak after suffering several setbacks.
While he may not be back to his peak form, Green’s leadership was greatly missed nonetheless. According to Warriors rookie James Wiseman, Green has a strong personality that is sure to bring tons of positive energy to the team and will impact them in their performances going into the rest of the season.
