Draymond Green Makes Decision in Favor of Warriors

Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green has declined his $27.7 million player option for the 2026-27 season, making him a free agent, according to Shams Charania of ESPN.

This move provides Golden State with greater financial flexibility ahead of free agency, as the club is reportedly exploring an ambitious summer plan involving acquiring LeBron James as a free agent and Anthony Davis via trade.

Green had until the end of June to make a decision on his option, which was valued at approximately $27.7 million for the 2026-27 season.

By declining the option, Green becomes an unrestricted free agent. However, this decision does not automatically mean he will leave the Golden State Warriors.

It could allow both parties to discuss a new contract structure that provides Green with longer-term security while helping the Warriors manage their salary cap.

Green has spent his entire NBA career with the Warriors and remains one of the key veterans and locker room leaders alongside Steph Curry.

According to reports, Green's decision gives the Warriors additional flexibility as they explore a massive summer scenario: pursuing LeBron James as a free agent and attempting to acquire Anthony Davis via trade.

The idea is to build another championship contender, comprised of veterans, around Curry, Green, James, and Davis.

Previous reports indicated that Golden State's interest in LeBron was tied to the possibility of convincing him to contend for another championship alongside Curry and head coach Steve Kerr.

Meanwhile, Davis would need to be acquired via trade, meaning the Warriors would have to prepare a financially viable package that satisfies his current team, the Washington Wizards.

In a trade scenario for Anthony Davis, it's possible Jimmy Butler could be sent to Washington.

Green completed another season as a defensive anchor and secondary playmaker for Golden State.

During the 2025-26 regular season, he averaged 8.4 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game, shooting 41.8% from the field.

He participated in 68 games and continued to be one of the most important frontcourt defenders for the Warriors.

Green was drafted by Golden State with the 35th pick in the 2012 NBA Draft after four seasons at Michigan State.

Since then, he has become one of the most significant players in franchise history. Green is a four-time NBA champion, a four-time All-Star, a former Defensive Player of the Year, and a multiple-time All-Defensive Team selection.

His partnership with Steph Curry has been fundamental to the Warriors' championship era.