The Golden State Warriors received a boost during Monday’s NBA slate against the Washington Wizards as Draymond Green was in the lineup to actually play for the first time since January 5th. Green got a ceremonial start on January 9th, checking out after seven seconds so he could start alongside Klay Thompson in his return.
Green missed 29 games and the Warriors lost their edge during that time. While he may not produce the biggest numbers, he is the heart and soul of the team. The energy that he brings is infectious and the team was missing it the last few weeks without him.
His presence on the court also helps take pressure off of everyone else. Stephen Curry has experienced some struggles without Green, but on Monday night, he got right back on track.
Curry scored 47 points, knocking down 7-of-14 from 3-point range and 16-of-25 overall. He added six rebounds and six assists for a strong stat line to help defeat the Wizards.
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“It’s just chemistry and understanding how to create good looks, especially when I’m coming off the ball or if he’s in the pick-and-roll,” Curry said. “Ten years of that, so it shouldn’t be that surprising.”
The two are masterful when on the court together, as their chemistry is through the roof. Green’s skills as a playmaker open things up for Curry, who can then make an impact off the ball, where he is even tougher to slow down.
Draymond Green didn’t start the game, coming off the bench for 20 minutes. Green admitted he was a little nervous checking in, but locked in right away as the first play was called for him.
“He threw me right in the fire,” Green told ESPN. “I checked in, and he called a play where I had the ball. And I was very thankful for that because it immediately allowed me to settle down.
“That’s one thing I won’t forget. I may forget a lot of things, but one thing I won’t forget: how to get him the ball.”
LATEST NBA NEWS: NBA Scores: Stephen Curry Drops 47 In Warriors’ Win vs Wizards
Green looked like he hadn’t missed a beat, producing a prototypical line for himself, scoring six points with seven rebounds and six assists. His return will help get the Warriors back on track, as they are 29-6 with him in the lineup this season and 18-16 without him.
Curry likely benefits the most from Green’s return, which is something he touched on following the game as well.
“When I’m not out there and when I’m watching, I see things that can be done that can help him out,” Green said of Curry. “He’s the greatest shooter we’ve ever seen. But you still have to screen, and you still have to find him in good spots and make sure he gets good shots and easy looks as opposed to tough looks all the time.”
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Knowing and accepting roles is something imperative to an NBA team having success. There isn’t a team in the league with a trio of Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green that has as much experience, chemistry, and success as those three have had in their time with the Golden State Warriors.
