In a recent episode of the No Nonsense With Tim Thomas & Scoop B Podcast, former NBA All-Star Xavier McDaniel discussed the current NBA landscape and drew parallels between himself and Draymond Green.
McDaniel, known for his fierce competitiveness and unyielding attitude on the court, sees shades of himself in Green’s demeanor, particularly in his tenacity and willingness to challenge opponents.
While acknowledging the uniqueness of his own playing style, McDaniel highlighted Green’s aggressive approach and emphasized the importance of fit within a team’s system.
“As far as attitude, I would say Draymond Green. As far as playing wise, no one plays like me,” McDaniel said. “I can’t compare my game to nobody because I had an awesome turnround jump shot…
“I don’t see anybody that plays like me, except maybe Draymond with the attitude, being a fierce competitor telling guys F-you. He’s about the only guy. That’s why I tell people all the time I like him.
“He’s in a great system with the Warriors that he doesn’t have do, he could score eight points, seven rebounds, and seven assists. Think about it. That’s a big night for him. Any other team I don’t know how he will fair, but that system fits him just perfect.
“The NBA is all about fit. Everybody can play, but can you put five guys that play together and work together as a great unit? Everybody got talent.”
Reflecting on Green’s reputation as an enforcer on the court, McDaniel emphasized the importance of standing up to aggressors and not allowing them to dictate the game’s physicality.
“The difference is Draymond is the aggressor and nobody’s being aggressive to him. The bully has been bullying everybody and nobody bullies the bully…,” McDaniel said.
