Draymond Green Sends Clear Message After DPOY Loss

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated Apr 27, 2025 6:33 AM ET

Draymond Green was a force on the defensive end on Saturday night as the Golden State Warriors took down the Houston Rockets in Game 3 of their NBA playoffs first-round matchup.

Green struggled with his shot on Saturday, going 3-of-11 overall for seven points, while also missing all four of his attempts from deep. The four-time All-Star, however, registered eight rebounds, four assists, two steals and three blocks, as he helped lead Golden State to a crucial win.

After the game, Green was asked by reporters to share his reaction to Cleveland Cavaliers star Evan Mobley bagging the Defensive Player of the Year title. Green, who finished third in the final vote behind Mobley and Atlanta Hawks stud Dyson Daniels, made his opinion of the new DPOY crystal clear.

“Congratulations to Evan Mobley," Green said, via Warriors beat reporter Anthony Slater of The Athletic. "Incredible young player. … It’s always great to see young guys get their due in this league.”

Green's clear message here makes it evident that he has no ill will against the 23-year-old Mobley, who had an undeniably massive year with the Cavs this past season. As he said, Green is also delighted with the fact that the younger generation is able to make its mark in the NBA.

This loss has got to sting for Green, but he showed nothing but class by expressing his respect and admiration for Mobley.

More than a few supporters have aired their disappointment about Green losing out on the DPOY title yet again, especially with how he finished third in the vote. Green, who won the same title back in 2017, refused to add fuel to the flame and has instead decided to take the high road by giving Mobley his flowers.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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