Draymond: I '1 million percent' have case for DPOY
Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green shared his reasons for why he deserves to win his second Defensive Player of the Year award.
"I look around the league and don't see many players impacting the game on the defensive end the way I do," Green said following Tuesday's 104-93 win over the Milwaukee Bucks, per ESPN's Ohm Youngmisuk. "I don't see many players completely throwing off an entire team's offense the way I do. One thousand percent.
"Especially with (Victor Wembanyama) going down, seemed like he had it won. And now it is right there. So, 1 million percent I have a case, and I will continue to build that case for these next 13 games. Tonight was a prime example of that."
Green posted four blocks and two steals against the Bucks. He also helped limit star Giannis Antetokounmpo to 20 points on 5-of-16 shooting, the two-time MVPs worst shooting game over the past two seasons, according to ESPN Research.
The Bucks' 93 points in the contest marked their lowest output of the campaign.
"Draymond, that defense tonight on Giannis was incredible," Warriors coach Steve Kerr said. "To hold him to five field goals, Draymond showed why he is still one of the great defenders in the world. It wasn't just the defense; it was the leadership, the energy."
Green is averaging 1.4 steals and 1.1 blocks through 55 games this season. However, he said his defensive abilities are better appreciated when watching him play.
"You got some people that have a vote on the East Coast that probably see us play four times a year," Green said. "And if you look at the stats, you be like, 'Oh, Draymond averages one steal and a block.' Those numbers don't jump off the page at you. But you watch me play and then ask the opposing coach what did I do to (their) offense? It's a different story.
"This award is widely based off statistics, and those statistics don't always tell the story. ... But I want another one, and I ain't retired yet. I still got a chance."
The Warriors have gone 15-3 since acquiring Jimmy Butler and are 40-29 overall to sit sixth in the West.