Draymond Green says being the greatest ever isn’t crucial: “I need to be the greatest Draymond Green… Don’t need to be in everyone’s top 5”

Draymond Green gave a thoughtful message to young players aiming to replicate him. Green said being the greatest player isn't the most crucial aspect in his case. It's about being the best version of himself to make an impact on his team.

Here's what the former DPOY said about this during an interview on ESPN (via Talkin' NBA):

"No. 1 study... I try to hang my hat on my basketball IQ. That's what I think my No. 1 attribute is in the game of basketball, and then I think it's just the undying will and passion to be great.

"When you speak of greatness, everyone is like, 'Oh man, you need to be the greatest player ever.' No, I need to be the greatest Draymond Green that I can be. I don't need to be in everyone's top 5."

Green has been the perfect example for young players to understand and learn how to play winning basketball without stacking up the box score. The Golden State Warriors forward has remained integral to the team's success.

Green identified a role for himself on a star-studded team that helped him excel in his career. He dug deeper into his leadership, defensive, and playmaking skills to become a vital cog in the Dubs' four championship runs in the last eight years.

The Warriors already had two elite offensive players, Steph Curry and Klay Thompson, and later, Kevin Durant for three years. Draymond Green ensured that he made their work simpler with his skillset. His contributions haven't gone unnoticed. Once it's all said and done, Green will likely be rewarded with the tag as one of the game's greats.

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Draymond Green is turning things around after major controversies plagued his start to the season

Draymond Green lost his spot among Golden State Warriors fans as a favorite following his physical altercation with young star Jordan Poole. Green was under the scanner for his objectionable behavior many games into the season.

The Warriors' locker room had also lost their trust in him as their leader. The altercation was considered by many as one of the reasons behind the Dubs' average start to the year. However, Green seems to have gained the confidence of the fans and his teammates again.

He has been an excellent leader on the court for the struggling Warriors. They have struggled on the defensive end for a long time, but Green has been vital in ensuring the Warriors improve in that area with every game. Of late, he has also impacted the game offensively with his scoring bursts.

Draymond Green has averaged 10.4 points, 6.1 assists, and 1.6 blocks per game across his last seven appearances. The Warriors have gone 5-2 during that stretch, including their recent win over the league's best record holders, the Boston Celtics.

Green has effectively anchored the team's defense whenever he has been on the court. He has the best net rating (11.7), second-best defensive rating (108.2), and third-best offensive rating (119.9) for the Warriors this season.