Draymond Green’s return could just be a week away.
Shortly before Monday night’s contest against the Denver Nuggets, Green announced that he is targeting a March 14 return against the Washington Wizards, via the Twitter account for The Draymond Green Show.
“That is the date that I’m targeting and I am excited as hell,” Green said. “It’s been almost two-and-a-half months by the time I play. I’ve never missed that much time during season. I once had an ankle injury that kept me out for a very long time in high school but it was the offseason. This is something different for me. I’m extremely excited to get back out there with my guys to try to help right the ship.”
Draymond made a ceremonial seven-second start with Klay Thompson on Klay Day Jan. 9 after feeling a twinge in his calf that evening. Eventually, Green was diagnosed with an L5-S1 disc issue in his back. Green has missed the past 26 contests including Monday night, and the Warriors have four more contests until hosting the Wizards. Golden State is desperate to add his presence on defense and offense.
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The Warriors are in the midst of a freefall the past few weeks with a 2-8 record in their past 10 contests. Beyond Kevon Looney, Golden State doesn’t have a big man and it’s a big reason why they’ve been getting torched inside by the opposition. Green is also the best facilitator of the offense, which has failed to have the same rhythm without him directing traffic from the top of the key.
Green is averaging 7.9 points, 7.6 rebounds and 7.4 assists but his leadership and ability to raise the team’s intensity is arguably what they’re missing most.
Steph Curry will also turn 34 on Monday, so it could be a celebration of sorts at Chase Center. Green hasn't truly played with Curry and Thompson since Game 6 of the 2019 NBA Finals.
Second-year center James Wiseman is still rehabbing the torn meniscus in his right knee and his return could occur within the next couple of weeks as well. If Green and Wiseman are able to return, the Warriors would finally be at full strength for the first time all season.
