Draymond Green Explains Decision to Come Off the Bench in Game 4

The Warriors picked up a crucial win in Game 4 against the Kings, trotting out a new starting lineup on Sunday as they looked to even the series.

Among the Warriors’ lineup changes included Draymond Green being brought in off the bench, rather than taking his usual spot among the starting five following his return from the one-game suspension which caused him to miss Game 3. 

The decision to bring Green off the bench was reportedly made by the organization, though The Athletic’s Shams Charania indicated that the 33-year-old was on board with the move. 

Speaking to reporters after the game, Green explained the thought process behind his role change.

“We won. So, I’m a firm believer in ‘if something isn’t broke, you don’t fix it,’” said Green. “I didn’t want to come back and just shake things up because I’m back.” 

Green played 31 minutes for Golden State off the bench on Sunday, playing a pivotal role on defense despite shooting just three for 14 from the field. He finished the night just shy of a triple-double, logging 12 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists. 

“There’s a lot of guys who, you know, 11 years in, you start to feel a sense of entitlement... I never want to reach that point in my career, where I feel entitled to something. Those guys don’t fare well in the end,” he added. 

It’s unclear if the Warriors intend to keep Green in a bench role for Game 5, though his comments indicate he’d be on board so long as the team picks up another win.