Draymond Green and the Golden State Warriors inked a four-year, $100 million contract extension during the offseason. He has, however, had a challenging start to the season after overcoming a calf injury and then making some poor choices that resulted in an indefinite suspension.

When he’s on the court, Green can make a difference for the Warriors. But his current run of problems has undoubtedly given some fans hope that a deal would be feasible. During a recent episode of “The Bill Simmons Podcast,” Simmons addressed a potential trade that would send Green to the Los Angeles Lakers in return for Austin Reaves.

“Because you could theoretically make a Draymond Green for Austin Reaves trade in the next few weeks,” Simmons remarked. “Let’s pretend the Lakers are playing at a.500 level. Do they talk themselves into that situation? Does Golden State need to include [Moses] Moody for that to work? Do further contracts need to be added? All I like is the trade. I’m not claiming it will occur. In theory, I enjoy the [trade], but I’m not reporting it. I don’t think Golden State needs Draymond. It’s time for them to trade him, in my opinion, and I believe they should do so.

Several trade ideas from the previous season would have moved Green to join LeBron James’ squad, the Lakers. However, their suggestions were never more than idle speculation. Simmons’ suggestion is likely to have the same outcome.

Even still, Green’s future with the team is not quite as certain as it was before the season. That won’t change until he receives the all-clear to rejoin the court and starts leaving a positive legacy through his performances and leadership. Warriors supporters are aware of Green’s abilities. He will now have to remind everyone else.

Draymond Green missed over a month of play while serving an NBA ban before the Warriors were able to get him back on the court. After enjoying a rare day off, Stephen Curry was also back in the starting lineup.

It made little difference as Golden State led for the duration of the game until faltering in the fourth quarter and losing 116-107 to the injured Memphis Grizzlies on Monday at FedExForum, possibly its worst loss of the 2023–24 NBA season.

Curry ended the game with a team-high 26 points despite lacking his usual shooting rhythm and getting fouled frequently. Despite his low-scoring total of seven points, Green was nevertheless productive with seven rebounds and four assists.

Dario Šarić contributed 13 points and seven rebounds, while Jonathan Kuminga finished with 20 points and 11 rebounds. Klay Thompson was limited to nine points and a team-low minus-25 while Andrew Wiggins scored sixteen points.