NBA Hall of Famer Dwyane Wade explains why Draymond Green is not ranked higher as an individual player

Draymond Green stands as a true icon of the Golden State Warriors, forming a legendary era alongside Stephen Curry. He has played an instrumental role in the franchise’s four championship triumphs over the last decade. Despite his impact on the court, Green frequently finds himself overlooked in discussions ranking the greatest players in NBA history. Hall of Famer Dwyane Wade offers insights into the reasons behind his exclusion from these prestigious rankings.

“If you’re a Draymond fan, you can’t care about what Draymond is ranked as an individual player because he doesn’t go out with an individual mentality. You got some guys that are individually, they go out like, ‘I’m this, I’m individually about to tear you alive. Yes, my team’s gonna win and we’re gonna win championships, but individually… Draymond does not go out with that mentality,” Dwyane Wade said, via Time Out.

Draymond Green may not be the player who consistently posts eye-popping statistics or sweeps through individual defensive accolades. Yet, his influence on the Golden State Warriors‘ framework is indisputable. Regularly included in conversations for Defensive Player of the Year—a title he has claimed once. At 34, he continues to demonstrate his ability to significantly impact the league.

Draymond Green #23 of the Golden State Warriors react after a play during the third quarter of an NBA game against the New Orleans Pelicans at Smoothie King Center on March 28, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Draymond Green’s leadership remains one of his most defining and valuable qualities

Stephen Curry may be the standout star of the Golden State Warriors, but it is Draymond Green’s vocal leadership that has been a cornerstone in steering the franchise to multiple championships. Together, they have fostered a winning culture that permeates the entire organization. Players like Jordan Bell have even lauded Green as the best teammate they have ever had, citing his unwavering support and presence for the team.

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Warriors’ Draymond Green breaks silence on Lakers’ Luka Doncic’s impressive physical transformation

In a league where individual skills and egos often take center stage, the importance of players like Draymond Green cannot be overstated. Critics might argue that these intangible qualities seldom lead to success, yet his impressive resume—boasting four NBA championships and nine All-Defensive team selections—speaks volumes about his indispensable role in the Warriors’ achievements.

Draymond Green’s rise with the Warriors is turning heads across the NBA

In the 2024-25 season, Draymond experienced his best individual season in six years. He averaged 9 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 5.6 assists across 68 games. These achievements propelled him back to the DPOY podium after five years and secured him a spot on the All-Defensive First Team. At 35, Green aims to win the DPOY award again, a feat he has not reached in eight years, highlighting how his ambition and competitive drive keep him among the best in his position.