Golden State Warriors power forward Draymond Green can become an unrestricted free agent this summer if he declines his 2023-24 player option and one NBA writer believes the four-time champion could sign with the Los Angeles Lakers or Phoenix Suns if he decides to leave the Dubs.
Colum Dell of Yardbarker listed the Lakers and Suns as potential landing spots for Green.
“Having faced off in the NBA Finals on four separate occasions, Green’s respect for Lakers star LeBron James blossomed into a close friendship off the court,” Dell wrote. “In 2019, Green changed his representation to Rich Paul of Klutch Sports, James’ longtime friend, and has since become business partners with the NBA’s all-time leading scorer.
“Despite the Lakers having nearly $30M in projected cap space this summer, money could be tight. Los Angeles aims to extend guard Austin Reaves, who may command a $100M deal in free agency, and it is also facing a dilemma at the point guard position. The Lakers traded for their former draft pick D’Angelo Russell midseason, and the reunion appeared promising, but a troubling playoff run may lead to hesitancy about re-signing him. Assuming Russell heads elsewhere and Los Angeles finds a cheaper point guard option, Green’s all-around skills, especially his playmaking ability, could be an ideal match alongside James and Anthony Davis.”
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Draymond Green, Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Lakers & Phoenix Suns Updates
As Dell pointed out, Green has a very close relationship with Lakers superstar LeBron James. Both champions are represented by Rich Paul of Klutch Sports Group.
Lakers big man Anthony Davis is also represented by Paul and LA head coach Darvin Ham is from the same area (Saginaw, Michigan) as Green.
“As someone who doesn’t need the ball in his hands to contribute, Green might be a better fit with the tandem of Durant and Devin Booker than Paul and Ayton,” Dell wrote. “New Suns owner Mat Ishbia has already pulled off surprising moves during his short time in charge. Could he have another one in store involving a fellow Michigan State alum?”
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Draymond Green, Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Lakers & Phoenix Suns Updates
Green played with Suns All-Star Kevin Durant on the Warriors for three seasons. The two stars won two championships together and have reconciled their differences after Green yelled and cursed at Durant during a Warriors-Los Angeles Clippers game in 2018-19.
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