5 reasons the Golden State Warriors can win 2022 NBA Championship

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 20: Klay Thompson #11 and Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors talks with each other against Indiana Pacers during the first half of an NBA basketball game at Chase Center on January 20, 2022 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /

4 of 5

Golden State Warriors predictions, Draymond Green

WASHINGTON, DC – MARCH 27: Draymond Green #23 of the Golden State Warriors and Kristaps Porzingis #6 of the Washington Wizards go for a rebound at Capital One Arena on March 27, 2022 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images) /

2. Draymond Green can shut down big wings

Green isn’t quite as spry on the perimeter as he was during his athletic prime, but he still has the strength and guile required to hold up when asked to guard big wings in crunch time. His ability to take away the opponent’s number one scoring option when the game is on the line gives the Warriors a massive advantage in the playoffs.

It’s essential that Kerr not overexpose Green by forcing him to play that sort of dogged defense for four quarters every night. Picking and choosing his spots with Green will be one of the Warriors’ coaching staff’s biggest challenges as the playoffs roll along.

Tight fourth quarters are when Green can afford to really maximize his effort on the defensive end of the floor. He can use his physical strength to keep big forwards out of the post. His brilliant ability to read opposing offenses and break into the passing lanes still makes him a nightmare for perimeter-based wings as well.

Green’s lack of three-point accuracy on the offensive end of the floor means he has to play exceptional defense to continue to impact his team in a positive manner. Fortunately for the Warriors, he’s still an elite defender in small stretches which is what matters most in the playoffs.

Home/Golden State Warriors