Draymond Green crowns himself NBA Defensive Player of the Year ahead of crucial Golden State Warriors clash - "I think DPOY should be yours truly!"

Raunak Bose / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Apr 14, 2025, 00:44 IST

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Draymond Green confidently declared himself the NBA's Defensive Player of the Year, despite acknowledging strong competition from Evan Mobley and Dyson Daniels. Green's self-assessment stems from his pivotal role in anchoring the Warriors' improved defense. As Golden State prepares for a crucial game against the Clippers, Green believes his impact solidifies his claim to the title.

Draymond Green crowns himself NBA Defensive Player of the Year ahead of crucial Golden State Warriors clash - "I think DPOY should be yours truly!"

Draymond Green of the Warriors (Image Source - Getty Images)

Draymond Green isn’t waiting for the official announcement. The Golden State Warriors forward has already crowned himself the NBA’s Defensive Player of the Year, according to a recent interview with HoopsHype.
With the Warriors preparing for a high-stakes regular season finale against the Los Angeles Clippers, Green took a moment to stake his claim for the league’s top defensive honor. The outcome of Sunday’s game could determine whether Golden State secures the No. 6 seed or drops into the play-in tournament, but Green is confident his individual accolades are already secured.

Reason behind Draymond Green’s confident self-assessment

When asked about his chances of winning Defensive Player of the Year, Draymond Green didn’t hesitate. “Oh man, I think—put it in the bag. That’s what I think. Put it in the bag. Yours truly,�?/span> Green said.

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While acknowledging strong defensive seasons from Cleveland’s Evan Mobley, New Orleans�?Dyson Daniels, and the Clippers�?Ivica Zubac, Green made it clear he believes he stands above the competition. “All those guys have had great years. I ain’t taking nothing away from them—and I see them on First-Team All-Defense. But I think DPOY should go to yours truly. I’ll take that.�?/span>

Does Draymond Green deserve the title of DPOY?

Draymond Green has been the anchor of a Warriors defense that has fueled their second-half surge. His ability to guard multiple positions, direct teammates, and disrupt opposing offenses has been critical to Golden State’s success.
Despite strong competition, Green’s impact on one of the league’s most improved defenses makes him a frontrunner. His leadership and versatility have kept the Golden State Warriors in contention, even as Stephen Curry’s career enters its later stages.

Possible contenders for the DPOY title: Mobley and Daniels

Evan Mobley presents the strongest case against Green. The Cavaliers big man has been a defensive force, capable of guarding any player in any area of the court. His contributions have helped Cleveland secure the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference, making him a legitimate All-NBA candidate.
Dyson Daniels, meanwhile, has emerged as an elite perimeter defender. Leading the NBA with three steals per game, the Pelicans guard has also entered the Most Improved Player conversation. His ability to generate turnovers and deflections sets him apart, though his case may not be strong enough to overtake Green.
Before any awards are handed out, Green and the Warriors face a must-win game against the Clippers. A victory locks them into the No. 6 spot, while a loss could send them to the play-in tournament.
Also read: Stephen Curry demands "Game 7 mentality" as the Golden State Warriors face do-or-die clash with the Los Angeles Clippers: "I don't want to be too dramatic!"
Whether or not the league officially names Green Defensive Player of the Year, he’s already declared himself the winner. And given his track record, it’s hard to argue against him.

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About the Author

Raunak Bose

As a passionate WWE content writer, Raunak craft engaging narratives that bring the thrilling world of wrestling to life, capturing the drama, excitement, and heroism of the ring. His work fuels the imagination of WWE fans, making every match and storyline unforgettable.

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