Golden State forward Draymond Green reflected on the Warriors’ season-ending loss to the Timberwolves in Game 5, speaking candidly about the team’s struggles and future during his postgame press conference Wednesday night.
Green acknowledged the absence of Stephen Curry due to injury but refused to use it as an excuse, stating, “They beat us. Injuries are a part of it… you play who’s on the floor, and that’s what they did.”
The veteran emphasized the importance of health and a bit of luck in a playoff run but credited Minnesota for earning the win and advancing.
When asked about the team’s overall trajectory, Green said the group had continued to improve throughout the season but ultimately fell short. “Our ceiling is—it is what it is now. We were a second-round team and a second-round exit, so that’s what it is.”
Looking ahead, Green expressed optimism about Golden State’s future, especially with Jimmy Butler now part of the core. “We think we got the pieces to make another run at it and do it again,” he said, pointing to the offseason as a time for necessary upgrades and player development.
He also praised the team’s young contributors, including Brandin Podziemski, Jonathan Kuminga, and Moses Moody, highlighting the importance of consistency and the growth they showed over the season. “They all made tremendous strides… next year, you hope to see them take that next big step.”
Green rejected the notion that age would be a limiting factor for himself, Curry, or Butler. “Every year, we will get older… I feel like I’m still improving. I feel like Steph’s still improving. And I feel like Jimmy’s still improving.”
Asked what he personally aims to improve, Green pointed to limiting turnovers and adjusting his game to a changing role within the offense.
He maintained confidence in the Warriors’ ability to contend, saying that improvements and roster adjustments are inevitable in the NBA. “You retool. You do whatever it is that you got to do to take that next step.”
On the Timberwolves’ performance, Green had high praise for Julius Randle and Anthony Edwards. “They got a real shot at it… they got all the pieces,” he said, citing their depth and defense as reasons they could win the West.
Despite the disappointing finish, Green remains focused on returning stronger. “Do all that we got to do to improve… I have no doubt in my mind that they’ll be looking to do it.”
