Warriors star Draymond Green compares Tyrese Haliburton to NFL legend ahead of Game 2 vs OKC

The Golden State Warriors, led by Draymond Green, fell short of reaching the NBA Conference Finals after a defeat against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Meanwhile, the Timberwolves themselves were eliminated by the Oklahoma City Thunder, setting the stage for an unexpected NBA Finals showdown featuring the Indiana Pacers, led by rising star Tyrese Haliburton.

With Game 1 of the Finals already in the books, the Pacers are set to travel to Oklahoma for Game 2 on Sunday. A victory would significantly bolster their championship aspirations, yet the Thunder, buoyed by an impressive regular-season performance, are equally determined to stake their claim on the title.

In anticipation of this crucial matchup, Green shared his thoughts on Haliburton during an episode of “The Draymond Green Show.” Green heaped praise on Haliburton’s clutch play, likening him to NFL legend Peyton Manning for his strategic prowess.

Warriors star remarked, “He rarely has two off nights in a row. Haliburton reminds me of Peyton Manning, you never wanted Manning to play with a lead because he could orchestrate anything he desired. Haliburton is reaching a similar level of control, balancing playmaking and scoring.”

Green’s projection for Haliburton in Game 2

Beyond the high praise, Green anticipates Haliburton will be especially assertive in Game 2 against OKC. “He’s going to come out in Game 2 firing on all cylinders, aggressive and downhill,” Green stated confidently.

Such belief from one of the NBA’s top players leaves fans eager to witness Haliburton’s performance on Sunday, betting on his potential to shift momentum in favor of the Pacers in this tightly contested NBA Finals.

Haliburton reflects ahead of Game 2

Ahead of the pivotal game, Haliburton spoke to media, reflecting on his journey to the Finals and an inspiring conversation with former NBA player Steve Nash. “I had a great conversation with Steve Nash a couple days ago,” Haliburton recounted. “He said, ‘You’re in rare air; I’ve never been there.’ It struck me, Steve Nash never made it to the Finals? That realization hit home how precious this opportunity is, and I am truly savoring every moment of it.”

Haliburton’s words capture the excitement and gravity of his first Finals appearance, resonating with fans and emphasizing the weight of the occasion as he leads Indiana’s charge for their first-ever NBA title.