Draymond Green's Shocking Verdict: Warriors' Season a "Success" Despite Playoff Miss!

The Golden State Warriors' 2023-24 season ended without a playoff berth, a scenario many would label a disappointment for a franchise accustomed to championships. Yet, in a defiant stance against conventional wisdom, Warriors veteran Draymond Green has declared the season an undeniable "success." His reasoning? The monumental growth and emergence of the team's younger core.

"A lot of people probably wouldn't deem this season a success," Green acknowledged on his podcast.

"But the development of Jonathan Kuminga, Brandin Podziemski... If you came into this season and said those two guys were going to develop into this, I would say this season was a success." This isn't just wishful thinking; it's a profound shift in perspective, valuing long-term potential over immediate results.

Kuminga's transformation was particularly striking.

After a challenging start to his career, the forward blossomed into a consistent threat, averaging career highs in points, rebounds, and assists, and showcasing a refined offensive game. His ability to drive, finish, and even create his own shot became a crucial element of the Warriors' attack, proving he can be a legitimate force in the league.

Similarly, rookie Brandin Podziemski emerged as a surprising revelation.

The guard's tenacious defense, excellent rebounding for his position, and high basketball IQ quickly earned him a vital role. Podziemski's fearlessness and all-around game made him a fan favorite and a legitimate building block for the future, exceeding all expectations for a late first-round pick.

While the season was fraught with its own set of challenges, including Green's own highly publicized suspensions, and the team's struggle to find consistent chemistry and a winning rhythm, these moments of adversity inadvertently paved the way for the youth to step up.

The experience gained by Kuminga, Podziemski, and even Trayce Jackson-Davis, under the intense pressure of a veteran-laden team fighting for playoff contention, is invaluable.

Green's perspective offers a compelling counter-narrative. For a team that has achieved so much, simply chasing another ring with an aging core might not be the only definition of success.

The ability to pivot, develop new talent, and lay the groundwork for the next generation of Warriors basketball, all while remaining competitive, is a testament to the organization's forward-thinking approach.

As the Warriors look ahead, Green's "success" narrative provides a foundation of optimism.

The development of Kuminga and Podziemski isn't just a silver lining; it's a beacon of hope, signaling that the future of Golden State basketball remains bright, even as the dynasty's golden era gradually transitions. The true measure of this season, it seems, won't be found in the standings, but in the burgeoning potential of its young stars.