INDIANAPOLIS -- They're only 14 games into the regular season, but that isn't preventing the Golden State Warriors from campaigning for an individual honor on behalf of Draymond Green.
"I hope he wins [Defensive Player of the Year]," Warriors coach Steve Kerr said after Monday's 120-83 win over the Indiana Pacers. "We're well aware of how great (San Antonio Spurs forward) Kawhi Leonard is. And it's one of those votes that the last couple years could have gone either way, but I would love to see Draymond rewarded for his efforts."
Kevin Durant weighed in as well.
"Why not? That's my teammate. He's covering a lot of ground for us guarding one through five," he said. "Rebounding, blocking shots, he's doing it all. That stuff is a popularity contest, so my campaign starts now: Draymond Green for Defensive Player of the Year. So hopefully you guys realize what he does on the court, the small things that go into being a great defender."
Green told ESPN last week that he desperately wanted to win the award this season after finishing runner-up to Leonard the past two seasons.
"That's something that I want to win, and if there's anything I've ever been selfish about, it's that award," Green said. "Like, I want that award."
Green has certainly made a case early on. He entered Monday's game in the top 10 in steals (2.2) and blocks (1.7). At 6-foot-8, he anchors the defense and does it in dominant fashion. At this rate, it seems certain he'll be in the conversation for the award once again.
"I know he's talked about going after that award, but he's does it night in and night out with his effort," Steph Curry said, "so I like his chances for sure."