Golden State Warriors star Draymond Green commented on his future with the franchise on ESPN's "Inside the NBA" on Wednesday. Green's future with the Warriors remains uncertain. Heading into the offseason, the star forward has the option to exercise his $27.6 million player option to stay in Golden State. If he declines his player option, Green will be an unrestricted free agent.
The former Defensive Player of the Year has never hinted that he wants to leave the Warriors. And if he stays in the Bay Area, he will likely retire as a member of the Warriors. On his recent appearance on "Inside the NBA," Green was asked about his thoughts on his future with the team.
Draymond Green Cannot Imagine Playing for a Different Team Other Than the Warriors
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"I don't want to," Green said. "It's not something I've imagined over the last few years of my career. Early on in your career, you kinda like, 'When is this gonna come to an end?'"
"For me, no, I don't see myself in another uniform, but I am also understanding of this business and know that it takes them to want me as much as I want them in order for it to continue."
This season, Green has been linked to trade rumors. His name appeared as a potential part of a package that would've sent Giannis Antetokounmpo to the Warriors. However, the deal never happened, and the defensive forward finished the regular season in Golden State.
In April, Green addressed his potential strategies for contract negotiations with the Warriors. The veteran star said that he's open to a "decline and extend" approach. This would lead him to decline his player option in the summer and negotiate a new deal with the front office.
"If I had it my way, I think that would be the best path forward. But in saying that, and having great representation, we worked really hard to get this option year when it was time for us to negotiate this contract," Green told Tim Kawakami on "The TK Show."
ESPN's Anthony Slater weighed in on Green's contract situation on an episode of "Warriors Stock Report" last April. Slater said that it's likely that the four-time All-Star will exercise his player option. However, he also considered the "decline and extend" method.
"I wouldn't rule out the decline and extend at a lower number if it helps both sides," Slater said.
