Draymond Green last won the award in 2017 as the Warriors won the NBA title. It was a moment of triumph and validation for the dynamic power forward, who had been a key player in the Golden State Warriors’ journey to the top. Green’s tenacity, versatility, and leadership on the court had earned him the prestigious Defensive Player of the Year award, solidifying his place as one of the best players in the league.
Green’s journey to the top was not an easy one. He was not a highly touted prospect coming out of college and was drafted in the second round by the Warriors in 2012. However, Green’s determination and work ethic quickly caught the attention of his teammates and coaches. He became known for his relentless defense and his ability to guard multiple positions, making him a valuable asset to the team.
In his first few years in the league, Green’s role on the Warriors was primarily as a defensive specialist. However, as the team’s success grew, so did Green’s role. He became an integral part of the Warriors’ “Death Lineup,” a small-ball lineup that was nearly impossible for opponents to defend. Green’s ability to handle the ball, pass, and shoot from the perimeter made him a perfect fit for this lineup, and he thrived in this new role.
But it wasn’t just his on-court contributions that made Green stand out. He was also a vocal leader and emotional leader for the team. His fiery personality and competitive spirit were contagious, and he pushed his teammates to be their best selves. Green’s leadership was crucial in the Warriors’ success, and it was evident in the way his teammates looked up to him and followed his lead.
In the 2016-2017 season, Green’s all-around game reached new heights. He averaged 10.2 points, 7.9 rebounds, 7.0 assists, 2.0 steals, and 1.4 blocks per game, becoming the first player in NBA history to record at least 150 steals, 100 blocks, and 500 assists in a single season. His impact on the court was undeniable, and it was no surprise when he was named the Defensive Player of the Year.
But Green’s contributions went beyond just individual accolades. He was a key player in the Warriors’ historic 16-1 playoff run, which culminated in the team winning their second NBA championship in three years. Green’s versatility and leadership were on full display in the Finals, where he averaged 11.9 points, 10.0 rebounds, 4.5 assists, 1.7 steals, and 1.2 blocks per game. He also had a triple-double in Game 2, further solidifying his impact on the team’s success.
Winning the Defensive Player of the Year award was a significant achievement for Green, but it was even more special because it came in the same year that the Warriors won the NBA title. It was a testament to Green’s hard work, dedication, and commitment to his team’s success. He had proven himself to be not just a great defender, but also a crucial piece of a championship-winning team.
Since then, Green has continued to be a vital part of the Warriors’ success. He has been named to the All-Star team three more times and has been selected to the All-Defensive team five times. His contributions on both ends of the court have been crucial in the Warriors’ three NBA championships in the last five years.
Green’s impact on the Warriors goes beyond just statistics and awards. He is the heart and soul of the team, the player who brings the energy and intensity every night. His leadership and passion for the game have inspired his teammates and have helped the Warriors become one of the most dominant teams in NBA history.
In conclusion, Draymond Green’s 2017 Defensive Player of the Year award was a well-deserved recognition of his contributions to the Golden State Warriors. His tenacity, versatility, and leadership on the court have made him an essential part of the team’s success. As the Warriors continue to strive for more championships, Green’s impact will undoubtedly be felt, and his legacy as one of the best players in the league will continue to grow.
