After a lengthy absence, Draymond Green is finally returning to the court. The Golden State Warriors announced that their defensive ace and three-time All-Star will suit up on Monday when the team hosts the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Kerr says Draymond Green will play Monday vs. T’Wolves.
— Nick Friedell (@NickFriedell) December 9, 2018
It’s Green’s first game since the Warriors suffered a blowout loss to the Houston Rockets on November 15. The 2017 Defensive Player of the Year sprained his toe against the Memphis Grizzlies on November 5, but, after taking just two games off, made it back onto the court. Unfortunately the injury didn’t heal fully, and despite another attempt to get back to playing, Green was ultimately shut down.
He’s missed 11 consecutive games, and 14 overall since suffering the injury, and the Warriors have not been themselves during that span. When he first hit the injury report, the team was 10-1; in the 16 games since (his 14 absences plus two games where he played, but wasn’t quite right), the team has gone 8-8.
Prior to Green’s injury, Golden State allowed 106.3 points per 100 possessions, which was 10th in the league. Since then, they’ve given up 110.5 points per 100 possessions, which is 23rd in the league.
Long story short: Green’s return will greatly benefit the team. He’s their emotional leader, their motor, and the best defensive player in the NBA.