Power Forward: Draymond Green
Week averages: 16 points, 6.8 rebounds, 6 assists and 62% FG%
Draymond Green, the heart and soul of the Golden State Warriors, rose to the occasion when the team needed him the most. With Stephen Curry having a rough shooting night, Green combined with front court partner Harrison Barnes to help the Warriors successfully complete a one-point comeback win over the Memphis Grizzlies. He had 23 points, 11 rebounds, 4 assists and 3 blocks in that game, not to mention his shooting percentage of 71.4%.
Green’s versatility and power at his size makes him one of the best power forwards in the league. And when you assemble the type of players Golden State has around him, he becomes that much more lethal. He can shoot the three-pointer at an efficient rate and at the same time can make smart passes that lead up to easy buckets. That’s why the Curry-Green pick and roll is the league’s indefensible play right now.
Green might only be 6 foot 7 inches but can make the paint a living hell for any forward or center above 6’10” who can’t handle his dribble too well. His defense on San Antonio Spurs forward LaMarcus Aldridge in the first contest between the teams put San Antonio’s offense out of rhythm and eventually led to the 30 point blowout win for the Warriors.
Paul Millsap’s performances during the week were noteworthy but not enough to dethrone Green from the Team of the Week.
