Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green is leading a young roster while he works his way back into form.
Draymond Green injured his lower back in January, resulting in a two month layoff. He has never had to rehabilitate himself midseason before.
One week ago, he said he felt ‘terrible’, and as if the game was moving too fast for him. Sunday’s 109-90 win over Sacramento was the first time Draymond Green has played back-to-back games since his injury.
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“For him to play in a back-to-back and bring that kind of energy and look as good as he’s looked, he’s clearly turned the corner from a physical standpoint,” Warriors coach Steve Kerr said.
Green finished the game with 6 points, 5 assists, 7 rebounds, a steal and two blocks. He had a plus-11 net rating for his 24 minutes on the court.
“I think there have been a few plays defensively that I can kind of feel me getting my time and rhythm back and covering up some things,” Green said. “Offensively, I’m starting to find my rhythm, too. I have to find my touch again. But other than that, I’m starting to find my rhythm. … It does feel that over the last few games it’s starting to come together for me.”
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More importantly, his presence in the locker room is vital for Golden State’s young players. While they deal with injuries, Green is a figure around which the team can rally.
“The first thing he said in the locker room last night was, ‘Young guys, tomorrow’s a huge game and we’re going to need you,’” Kerr said. “So for him to be able to play and help lead them, I thought was an important factor tonight.
“Last night was a huge win for us, and he recognized the importance of this one.”
