Draymond Green

In a nod of respect to December 8, 2024’s opponents, the Golden State Warriors’ commentators made a quite accurate pregame observation: in the NBA, it’s not always about who you’re playing, but rather, when you’re playing them. And, as Draymond Green-led teams have proven year-after-year, few opponents are more difficult to overcome than a four-time NBA champion itching to avenge a loss to the familiar foe. Oozing with a confidence and competitive spirit of old, Green — with Golden State ahead by six in the final half-minute — sizes up a longtime adversary in Rudy Gobert, ultimately using an inverted pick-and-roll, clearing his runway for a one-handed dagger. Green’s “nite-nite” celly, borrowed from the teammate who sprung him free on the screen, effectively told the story of the Warriors’ victory, allowing them to finally avenge the Minnesota Timberwolves. Effective, as always, in his complementary role, the four-time All-Star assembled six points, six rebounds, seven assists, and one block, providing momentum heading into Golden State’s play in the NBA Cup Semifinals.