When it comes to modern-day defenders in the NBA, number one has to be Draymond Green. The word tenacity doesn't even come close to describing the level of intensity he plays with. If the Kings are serious about building their defensive profile, he's the man to do it.
The 35-year-old power forward has been in the league since 2012, when he was drafted by the Golden State Warriors. He was a key element in the dynasty built over those years, playing a big part in all four NBA Championship victories. Draymond is a big reason why Golden State won those titles.
Green is a versatile, physical defender defender as well as a playmaker with unbelievable court vision. His basketball IQ is through the roof, and he has often been referred to as the beating heart of the Warriors. Golden State isn't Golden State without Draymond Green.
At the same time, Green's reputation for high-intensity, borderline-violent play earns him a lot of fouls, technicals, flagrants, and even ejections. But Draymond only has one speed, and it's pedal to the metal from the opening tipoff until time runs out. It's his greatest strength and greatest weakness.
The Kings need Draymond Green
Right off the bat, it's important to note that the Kings picking up Draymond Green is a long shot at best. As previously stated, Draymond is the core of the Warriors and has been for nearly 15 years. It would be difficult to get Golden State to part with him, even with a big trade offer.
Yet, Green has a player option in his contract for 2026-2027 and would be an unrestricted free agent in 2027-2028. The Warriors will start having to plan for the future sooner rather than later, and that means older players like Draymond moving on from Golden State one way or another.
If the Kings are serious about becoming a team with a defensive focus, they will need someone like Draymond. He is one of the top defenders in the league over the past decade and continues to bring that intensity to the court. That is exactly what the Kings are lacking.
More than playing defense himself, he could lead by example in this regard. Sacramento needs a player who hits the court at full gear every time and brings high-octane energy. Green might be getting older, but that is still the kind of player he is.