Green says he let teammates down: 'If I play Game 5, we win'

Draymond Green didn't shy away from personal accountability after getting himself suspended for Game 5 of the NBA Finals, which his Golden State Warriors lost at home to the Cleveland Cavaliers.

But even in inviting blame, Green managed to exude the brashness and confidence that's made him something of a lightning rod over the years.

"I let my teammates down," Green told reporters Wednesday, before adding: "I have a strong belief that if I play Game 5, we win."

The Cavs and their fans may bristle at that notion, but given the disparity in how the Warriors have performed with and without Green on the floor this season, it's not so far-fetched, even considering the Cavs won by 15 points as LeBron James and Kyrie Irving went for a combined 82.

Green has the Warriors' best net rating in the postseason, and the team has performed 27.4 points per 100 possessions worse without him. His absence robbed the Warriors of both their best all-around defender, and their deadliest lineup.

"I think my teammates fought and didn't play well, but still with six minutes to go, down six points, continued to battle and battle," he said. "It's on me to come out and help that battle."

Green, though, is ready to put the disappointment of his suspension - and the Warriors' subsequent loss - behind him, and focus on helping his team close out their second straight title in Cleveland on Thursday.

"At this point, it doesn't matter anymore," he said. "We lost Game 5, we're here for Game 6. ... I have to be better for my teammates as a leader of this team.

"I owe it to my teammates to come back and give all that I have."