Golden State forward Draymond Green spoke openly about the Kristaps Porzingis trade following Thursday’s 101-97 comeback win over the Phoenix Suns at Mortgage Matchup Center.
“It’s been a weird 24 hours… you lose two guys, actually three guys, that you have relationships with. But that is the business we’re in,” Green said.
Reflecting on the team’s response, he added, “Short-handed, down 14 in the fourth quarter, guys continue to fight and come out with a big-time win… says a lot about the character of the group.”
On Porzingis’ fit, Green highlighted the combination Golden State has been seeking. “I like it… adding more size, more rim protection, more shooting. Porzingis, switch guards on him, he really punishes him… He was the missing piece to a Boston championship.”
Green discussed defensive dynamics, noting, “For me personally, I love when there’s another rim protector on the floor… it unlocks everything I can do defensively. If you just take off, you break the scheme. With another rim protector, you can take those chances.”
He also addressed how Porzingis complements Al Horford. “Both of those guys are smart. They can shoot, protect the rim, guard smaller guys, guard bigger guys… if you switch on him, he just throws it to shooters. That changes an offense.”
Green reflected on Jonathan Kuminga’s departure to Atlanta. “I hope we’ve been good mentors and taught him how to be a pro… the same mistakes he was making two, three years ago, he doesn’t make now. I hope he relishes the opportunity.”
Regarding the remainder of the season, Green emphasized focus and resilience. “Our goal is to win games, give ourselves a shot at the playoffs… You give yourself a chance, and that’s the skill most of the NBA doesn’t have. We know how to do it.”
He also praised Gui Santos’ growth. “What got him on the floor was hustle plays and offensive rebounds… now you see what he can do with the ball, how he can shoot, how he can finish around the rim… it’s beautiful to watch.”
The Warriors erased a 14-point fourth-quarter deficit, with De’Anthony Melton’s layup tying the game at 97 and Gui Santos’ fast-break score giving Golden State a 99-97 lead with 28.7 seconds left. Pat Spencer scored a career-high 20 points, while Melton added 17 and Green contributed five points, five rebounds, and seven assists.
Porzingis is expected to join the team in Los Angeles on Friday, though he is unlikely to play against the Lakers on Saturday. The Warriors improved to 28-24, maintaining momentum in the competitive Western Conference.
