5 Warriors who need to step up in Curry's absence

Draymond Green

The Golden State Warriors' emotional lightning-rod.

There is no argument about the fact that Draymond Green, the Michigan State product drafted in the second round of 2012, is the 'heart and soul' of the Warriors' franchise. But did you know that the Golden State Warriors' offensive Rating for the 2018 season remained almost the same when Draymond Green was on the court, in fact it dipped by a narrow 0.2 margin?

Yes, the 'D' in Draymond certainly counts for something as the Defensive Rating of the team improves by 3.9 with his on-court presence. But despite being an all-around unselfish player, he really needs Steph Curry with him to execute the Warriors' trademark motion offense, or as Kobe Bryant calls it, 'The Golden Democracy'.

From the Warriors' offensive schemes, Draymond Green's function is to set up camp in the high or mid-post area and swing passes which he receives from players on the wing. Now, with more offensive duties to handle, it is very likely that Coach Steve Kerr will be bringing him up towards the 3-point line to receive the ball and run the offense. Although it is likely that his scoring averages for the postseason will hit a dip with more opposing teams' defenses more focused on him, he should more than compensate with improved assist numbers as he is undoubtedly the best passer at his position and their best bet left on the floor.