Big Perk wants the Warriors core to take a tough decision on Draymond this season.
Entering the 2023-24 season, the Golden State Warriors pinned their hopes on the maturity and leadership of their veterans, evident in their decision to trade a young talent like Jordan Poole and extend a $100 million contract to Draymond Green. However, the 4-time All-Star’s performance this season has fallen short of expectations, marked by four ejections, which has ultimately convinced Kendrick Perkins that it’s time for the 2022 NBA Champs to part ways with their enforcer.
“It’s time for the Warriors to part ways for Draymond Green,” Perkins said on First Take. “Mike Dunleavy, Joe Lacob, Steve Kerr, Steph Curry, they are going to have their tough conversation in the off-season because once a person shows you who they are, you have to believe him.”
.@KendrickPerkins believes it's time for the Warriors to part ways with Draymond Green. pic.twitter.com/C2opip1hVj
— First Take (@FirstTake) March 29, 2024
Perkins says Draymond will not change
Whether it’s choking Rudy Gobert or punching Jusuf Nurkic in the face, Draymond has recognized the serious consequences of his actions and their negative impact on the team due to his absence on the court.
Moreover, despite sharing tearful moments with coach Steve Kerr and numerous appeals from Stephen Curry for him to change, Green has refused to become more disciplined. As a result, Big Perk sees the 6’6″ forward’s attitude as unrepairable.
“Draymond Green is a veteran, and he is stuck in his ways,” Perkins added. “He’s (Steph) exhausted. The fanbase of Golden State is exhausted. Steve Kerr… he’s exhausted, and rightfully so. Draymond Green is not going to change.”
Additionally, considering that the 2017 DPOY is averaging a subpar 8.6 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game this season yet remains entitled to earn $73 million over the next three seasons, Perkins suggested that it would be in the Warriors’ best interest to offload ‘The Dancing Bear’ if they aspire to contend for a championship.
Perkins says Draymond needs ‘help’
Speaking to Pat McAfee, the ‘Swamp Thang’ stated that he doesn’t want Draymond to lessen his intensity or aggressive playing style on the court, but looking at him continuously fail to find the right balance, Perkins urged Green to get some ‘help’ in managing his anger effectively.
"You might need to go get more help and help is okay."
—@KendrickPerkins opens up about his experience in the NBA after Draymond Green's fourth ejection of the season. pic.twitter.com/TdN89kRB39
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) March 28, 2024
While the 34-year-old forward has been an integral part of the Dubs Dynasty, his performance this season has only emphasized how the Warriors made the wrong decision by relying on him and trading JP. However, with the business end of the season still remaining, Draymond still has the chance to change the narrative about himself.