OAKLAND — During Wednesday’s shootaround, Warriors All-Star forward Draymond Green and Steve Kerr talked about the return of Andrew Bogut to the team, who was officially re-signed by Golden State on Wednesday afternoon.
When asked how he felt about the return of his former teammate, Green didn’t hold back his enthusiasm.
“I’m excited as hell about it,” Green said. “I’m not the coach so I don’t know how the minutes work or anything like that, but I do know what Bogut brings to the table. Obviously great defense, extremely high IQ, and a great playmaker. I know what he brings to the table, but as far as role, that’s really not my job.”
Draymond remembers how Bogut became somewhat of a defensive mentor for him when he first joined the league back in 2012.
“The first day I got here he taught me how to guard the post in the NBA, which I had no clue, even in college,” Green said. “I used to try and guard the post with my chest, which is ridiculous. In the NBA you get torched guarding with your chest, so my first day here he taught me that, but then just different defensive rotations, and most importantly how to communicate on that side of the ball.”
While it’s been almost three years since he’s played with the Warriors, Draymond thinks Bogut can come back into the fold without skipping a beat.
“It fit the first time, and we’ve all grown as people, but I don’t think we’ve changed. So I can’t foresee it not working this time. He’s our brother, and we’re looking forward to having him back.” Green went on. “Down the stretch, we’re going to need (Bogut’s physical play). And by down the stretch, I mean the playoffs. We’re going to need that physicality.”
Kerr is also looking forward to bringing back the Australian big-man.
“We’re excited about Bogut coming in,” Kerr said. “We looked at this as an insurance policy in the front-court. He’s a a guy who obviously knows our system, knows our players, and he’s great for our offense. He’s good with handoffs, his passing ability, and you can lob for him.
“Defensively, he’s been one of the best in the game for a long time. He had a great season in Syndey. He’s healthy and fresh, and he’s the best player available for us. We have to look ahead to the playoffs and different matchups, and we felt vulnerable — particularly in case of injury — against certain matchups, and that’s why Bogut is coming.”
Kerr also commented on his potential role, saying, “Bogut and I have spoken, and the whole idea is he’s coming in with no expectation of minutes. He’s going to be a part of our team, and whatever the situation calls for, we’ll use him for that.”
The Warriors next matchup is against the Denver Nuggets on Friday at home, and hopefully the news of Bogut’s return will be a catalyst for this powerhouse team that has been struggling of late.
