Draymond Green Addresses Uncertain Warriors Future

Veteran forward says he hopes to stay in Golden State if team wants him back.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 5:37pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting Draymond Green's basketball movements and leadership role on the Warriors, with sharp, overlapping planes of color and form.Draymond Green's uncertain future with the Warriors raises questions about the team's championship aspirations and the value of veteran leadership.Today in Milwaukee

In the aftermath of the Golden State Warriors' season-ending loss, veteran forward Draymond Green addressed the uncertainty surrounding his future with the team. Green, who has spent his entire 14-year NBA career with the Warriors, expressed his desire to remain in Golden State if the organization wants him back, but acknowledged that the decision is not entirely in his control.

Why it matters

Green has been a key part of the Warriors' dynasty, winning four NBA championships with the team. His leadership and defensive impact have been crucial to the team's success, and his future could have major implications for the franchise's plans moving forward, especially if they pursue a trade for two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo.

The details

Green, who turned 36 last month, has a $27.6 million player option for next season, giving him and his agent, Rich Paul, a say in his future. While some have argued that Green's on-court impact has declined in recent years, his veteran leadership and ability to complement superstar Steph Curry remain valuable to the Warriors. Green acknowledged that he doesn't want to stay with the team simply based on his past accomplishments, but rather because he can still contribute to the team's success.

  • Green's comments came after the Warriors' 111-96 play-in loss to the Phoenix Suns on Friday, April 18, 2026.
  • Just two months ago, Green was connected to trade rumors involving a potential package for Giannis Antetokounmpo, raising questions about his future in Golden State.

The players

Draymond Green

A 36-year-old veteran forward who has spent his entire 14-year NBA career with the Golden State Warriors, winning four championships with the team.

Steph Curry

The superstar point guard and leader of the Golden State Warriors, who has been a key part of the team's dynasty alongside Draymond Green.

Giannis Antetokounmpo

The two-time NBA MVP who was the subject of trade rumors involving the Warriors and Draymond Green earlier this season.

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What they’re saying

“I don't know. I'm not retiring from basketball, though. I still love to play. And I think I'm still pretty decent. But this league we're in is an interesting one. It's one that you don't really control everything. So for me, I hope I've done enough to still be here because at the end of the day, if I haven't done enough, I don't want to be here.”

— Draymond Green, Warriors Forward

“If they want me here, I'll be right here.”

— Draymond Green, Warriors Forward

What’s next

The Warriors will have to decide whether to pick up Draymond Green's $27.6 million player option for next season or explore other options for the veteran forward. Green's future could also be tied to the team's pursuit of Giannis Antetokounmpo this offseason.

The takeaway

Draymond Green's uncertain future with the Warriors highlights the complex decisions facing the franchise as they look to maintain their championship contention while also transitioning to a new era. Green's leadership and defensive impact have been crucial to the team's success, but his declining on-court production and the team's potential pursuit of Giannis Antetokounmpo could ultimately determine his fate in Golden State.