Draymond Green Urges Pacers to Draft Top Talent Over Fit

Warriors star argues Indiana should target AJ Dybantsa or Darryn Peterson with top pick

Mar. 29, 2026 at 2:50pm

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Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green believes the Indiana Pacers should select either BYU's AJ Dybantsa or Kansas guard Darryn Peterson in the upcoming NBA Draft, arguing that teams should always take the best player available regardless of immediate team needs. Green directly challenged Pacers analyst Jeff Teague's view that Duke forward Cameron Boozer would be a better fit for Indiana.

Why it matters

Green's stance challenges the common NBA draft strategy of selecting players based on positional fit rather than overall talent level. He cites the Pistons' infamous 2003 selection of Darko Milicic over stars like Carmelo Anthony, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh as an example of the dangers of prioritizing fit over talent.

The details

Green believes Dybantsa or Peterson would be a better selection for the Pacers than Boozer, as they would provide more immediate impact and long-term potential. He argues that Dybantsa in particular would address a key need at small forward and bring more talent than the Pacers' current starting power forward, Jarace Walker.

  • The 2023 NBA Draft is scheduled for June.
  • The NBA Draft Lottery will take place on May 17, 2023.

The players

Draymond Green

A veteran forward for the Golden State Warriors who is known for his outspoken opinions on the NBA draft and player development.

AJ Dybantsa

A projected top NBA draft prospect from BYU who plays small forward.

Darryn Peterson

A projected top NBA draft prospect from Kansas who plays guard.

Cameron Boozer

A Duke forward who has been mentioned as a potential target for the Pacers in the upcoming draft.

Jarace Walker

The Pacers' current starting power forward who averages 11.5 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game.

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What they’re saying

“I don't think the Pacers have a great starting three-man right now. Adding AJ Dybantsa gives them a franchise player.”

— Draymond Green, Golden State Warriors Forward

“You must draft the best player available, not just someone who fills a positional need.”

— Draymond Green, Golden State Warriors Forward

What’s next

The Pacers will learn their draft position at the NBA Draft Lottery on May 17, 2023, which will determine their selection in the upcoming June draft.

The takeaway

Green's comments highlight the ongoing debate in the NBA around drafting for talent versus drafting for positional need. His stance challenges the conventional wisdom and urges the Pacers to prioritize selecting the best overall player, even if it doesn't perfectly fit their current roster.