Draymond Green addressed the Warriors’ 124-112 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Tuesday at Chase Center while marking his 900th regular-season game. He praised his team’s second-half effort but emphasized the need for consistency.
“We just played with more force on both sides of the ball,” Green said. “We moved the ball offensively, got downhill, and got kick-outs, which allowed for offensive rebound opportunities. We played with a lot more force in the second half.”
Green dismissed any notion of a moral victory despite the spirited comeback. “Nope. They’re a great team—champions for a reason and 21-1. We didn’t get a win, and we’re still 11-11. That’s the bottom line,” he said.
With both Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler sidelined, Green stressed defensive focus and limiting turnovers as key priorities. “We got to be great defensively because you’re missing a lot of points and gravity offensively. Can’t turn the ball over, play with high energy, and create second-chance points while limiting transition opportunities,” he explained.
Green also reflected on playing with five fouls. “Just not to foul, but I’m still going to cover all that I can. Do it with clean hands and not put the referees in a position to take it.”
He highlighted Pat Spencer’s growth and impact during the game. “Pat’s skill level has gone up. His mid-range shooting, confidence, and ability to take control put us in a good position. He was great tonight,” Green said.
Green praised Seth Curry’s performance despite limited practice and playing time. “Seth came out and got going the way he did tonight. Very important to add that level of shooting. We expect him to shoot the ball, and it’s on us to get him looks.”
On the Thunder’s decisive 18-5 run to close the game, Green took responsibility for defensive miscommunication. “We missed a couple shots, turned over the ball, and gave up a few threes. I called a double team on Shai and the rotation didn’t work. That was the killer.”
Green reflected on the team’s resilience without its stars. “I didn’t learn much, but I hope our guys learned that if we play hard, we can compete with anybody. Margin for error is less, but you give yourself a chance.”
He also shared a personal moment from the game, noting the presence of his children on the bench. “It’s cool. Anytime you give them those experiences, money can’t buy that. I’m forever grateful,” Green said.
Looking ahead, Green emphasized patience with returning players like De’Anthony Melton. “He’s coming back off an ACL injury. He has to get a rhythm and be unafraid. We can’t put all the pressure on him; he just needs to contribute the way he can.”
