Draymond Green Says He’s the Best Defender Ever—Here’s Why He Thinks He Tops the All-Time List
Draymond Green is one of the loudest and most confident voices in the NBA. Known for his tough attitude, strong defense, and high basketball IQ, Green is not afraid to speak his mind. Recently, he made a bold statement: he believes he’s the best defender in the history of the NBA.
In an interview with NBC Sports Bay Area, Green said, “I think I’m the best defender to ever play this game. One-hundred percent.” He didn’t hesitate. He believes it deeply. That comment got the basketball world talking. Is he right? Let’s look at why Draymond believes this and what others think.
Why Draymond Thinks He’s the Best
Draymond’s confidence isn’t just talk. He’s got reasons to back it up.
1. He Guards All Positions
One of Green’s biggest strengths is his versatility. He can guard every position on the court — from fast point guards to big centers. That’s rare. Most players are good at defending either small or big guys. But Green does both. Coaches love this. It helps his team adjust to any lineup.
2. His Defensive Awards
Green isn’t just talking. He has the awards to back it up. His career includes:
- Defensive Player of the Year (2017)
- 9× NBA All-Defensive Team
- Led the NBA in steals (2017)
- Key part of 4 NBA championships with the Warriors
He’s also been the defensive leader for one of the most successful teams of the last decade — the Golden State Warriors. Defense wins games, and Green has proven that many times.
3. Smart and Vocal Leader
Draymond is one of the smartest defenders in the game. He sees the floor like a coach. He talks constantly on defense, directing teammates, calling out screens, and predicting plays. That kind of communication is gold on defense. Even Warriors coach Steve Kerr once said, “He’s the best defender I’ve ever seen.”
His Performance Proves It
Green recently showed how good he still is. In a game against the Milwaukee Bucks, he held Giannis Antetokounmpo scoreless when guarding him. Giannis is a two-time MVP. That night, Green blocked shots, grabbed rebounds, and controlled the paint. The Warriors won, and Green’s defense was a big reason.
This wasn’t a one-time performance. Green has been doing this for years. From guarding LeBron James in the Finals to shutting down star players night after night, his defense speaks for itself.
Reactions from Around the NBA
Green’s statement created a lot of buzz. Some agreed. Others laughed.
Fans and Supporters
Many fans and analysts praised Green. They say his combination of skills — quick feet, strong body, smart mind — makes him truly elite. His impact on defense is clear, and his team wins when he’s on the floor.
Critics and Doubters
Not everyone agrees. Some fans point to older legends like:
- Bill Russell – 11-time NBA champion known for blocking shots and leading the Celtics dynasty
- Dennis Rodman – famous for his rebounds and energy
- Kawhi Leonard – known as the “Claw” for his lockdown defense
- Hakeem Olajuwon – one of the best shot blockers in NBA history
They say these players did more, or did it longer, or did it in a tougher era. Green, they argue, is great — but not the best.
Still Making History
Despite the debate, one thing is clear: Draymond is still at the top of his game. He was just named to the NBA All-Defensive First Team again. That shows he’s not slowing down. In fact, some analysts believe he could win another Defensive Player of the Year soon.
Green continues to be the heart of the Warriors’ defense, helping them make playoff runs and compete with younger teams. His leadership, toughness, and experience still matter a lot.
Why This Matters
Draymond Green’s statement isn’t just about ego. It raises bigger questions:
- Do we give defenders enough credit?
In a league focused on scoring, defenders like Green don’t always get the spotlight. But defense wins games too. - How do we compare players across eras?
Is it fair to compare Green to players from the 1960s or 1990s? The game has changed a lot. - What makes a great defender?
Is it steals, blocks, versatility, or impact? Green makes us think about what defense really means.
Final Thoughts
Is Draymond Green really the best defender in NBA history? That’s for fans to decide. But one thing is clear: he’s in the conversation. His numbers, awards, leadership, and success all support his case. And in the end, that may be the biggest win of all.
Whether you love him or not, Green is a winner. He defends hard, speaks boldly, and plays with pride. And now, he’s written his name into the debate forever. At the end of the day, Draymond Green’s statement may be bold, but it reflects his passion. Whether you agree or not, his impact on the game is undeniable.