Golden State Warriors veteran Draymond Green expressed no anxiety over potential trades ahead of the NBA deadline, despite swirling rumors of the team's pursuit of Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo. Speaking after a loss to the Detroit Pistons, Green emphasized his long tenure with the franchise and acceptance of the business side of basketball. He dismissed any worry, stating he slept well despite the speculation.
The NBA trade deadline on February 5 often brings uncertainty, but Draymond Green remains unfazed. Following the Warriors' defeat to the Detroit Pistons on Friday night, the 35-year-old forward addressed questions about his future with the team amid reports of Golden State's aggressive interest in acquiring Giannis Antetokounmpo from the Milwaukee Bucks.
"I've been here for 16 years now," Green said. "I have no reason to sit and worry about leaving. If I'm traded, that's part of the business. I ain't losing no sleep, though. I slept great last night. Incredible."
(Note: A referenced social media clip attributes a similar quote to Green but mentions 14 years with the team, highlighting a minor discrepancy in reporting.)
Green's contract, worth just under $26 million this season with one year remaining at the same salary, positions him as a potential trade asset to facilitate a blockbuster deal. However, analysts suggest other players, such as Jonathan Kuminga, could be involved instead. CBS Sports' Brad Botkin outlined hypothetical trade packages for Antetokounmpo suitors, excluding Green from the Warriors' proposal and noting cap considerations like the injured Jimmy Butler in broader scenarios.
Drafted 35th overall by Golden State in the 2012 NBA Draft, Green has spent his entire 16-season career with the Warriors, contributing to four championships and earning nine All-Defensive team selections. This season, he averages 8.4 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 5.5 assists on 41.6% shooting from the field.
The rumors underscore the high stakes as teams position for contention, though no deal has materialized.
