Warriors star Draymond Green explains what sets him apart from other defensive players in the NBA

The Golden State Warriors continue their impressive run toward the Western Conference Playoffs. They have 9 wins and only one loss in their last 10 games and are firmly entrenched in the sixth spot. Draymond Green has had a significant impact on the team’s recent success, particularly on the defensive end. He recently spoke about his abilities and what he believes sets him apart from other players in the NBA.

“No matter what the situation is for me defensively I’m fit for it,” he assured on The Draymond Green Show with Baron Davis. “I protect the rim, I can guard the pick and roll, I can trap the pick and roll and still guard my man without help, which I think is a skill that I have in the NBA that I don’t think anyone else possesses.”

Green then highlighted his defensive capabilities further. “I don’t think there is anyone in the NBA that can trap Damian Lillard on the ball screen and get back to Giannis when Giannis catches the ball in the pocket with no help. I don’t think there’s anyone who can do that,” he said, referencing the Warriors‘ recent game against the Milwaukee Bucks.

“Being able to guard to guys in one possession and not force someone to have to help me, I think that covers up a lot of mistakes,” Draymond added. “I think that saves a lot of energy for guys that don’t need to make extra rotations. I think that’s what separates me largely.”

Draymond Green #23 and Jimmy Butler #10 of the Golden State Warriors speak during a game against the Houston Rockets on February 13, 2025.

The four-time NBA champion didn’t stop there and also explained what he believes is another key asset in his defensive game. “Then also my basketball IQ, I think I see plays way before they happen,” he said. “I can spot something, I can sniff something out in a heartbeat, and I’m quick enough, I’m strong enough to react and address the issue.”

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Green singles out other NBA defensive players

In the same conversation, Draymond Green also recognized other players in the league who, in his opinion, deserve praise for their defensive prowess. “Evan Mobley, incredible defender, has incredible tools, incredible length, great shot blocker,” he said of the Cleveland Cavaliers forward.

“Dyson Daniels incredible defender. What he’s doing on the steals front, you’ve got to take your hat off to him,” Green added, referring to the Atlanta Hawks guard. He also singled out Jaren Jackson Jr. of the Memphis Grizzlies: “My young fella, incredible defender, what he does defending the rim is special.”

Green’s take on Defensive Player of the Year

Draymond Green recently made a strong statement about his chances of winning the Defensive Player of the Year award, particularly with the absence of Victor Wembanyama in the competition. The Warriors forward believes he has a solid case to win the award for a second time, following the recognition he received in 2017.

Speaking on the topic, Green reflected on players who, despite deserving the honor, never won the award. “Is it crazy that Tim Duncan never won a Defensive Player of the Year? I can believe it because I knew it, but I still can’t believe the fact that Timmy D never won a Defensive Player of the Year award. It’s crazy, it makes no sense to me,” Draymond said.

Immediately, Baron Davis mentioned other similar cases. “Kenyon Martin… If he fouled you, you’re getting fouled,” the former Charlotte Hornets player began. “I say Kobe, too,” he then added, referring to Bryant. “He picks up every challenge, every superstar.”