Draymond Green Says LeBron James Can Be GOAT but 'Can't Have This Ring'

Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green is less bothered about LeBron James' place in NBA history than about whether the Cleveland Cavaliers star can lead his team to another NBA title. 

"He can have [the title of greatest player ever]," Green said Wednesday on Good Morning America. "He just can't have this ring":

Green's comments were more measured than his response in October when asked by NBA.com's David Aldridge about a potential third Finals matchup between the Cavaliers and Warriors.

"And then, if Cleveland comes out of the east, I want to destroy Cleveland," Green said. "No ifs, ands and buts about it. But I also know that there’s steps to get to that point. And if and when we get to that point, I want to annihilate them."

The dynamic between James and Green will be fun to watch in the 2017 Finals.

Green earned a one-game suspension during last year's matchup after he swung his fist near James' groin.

The Undefeated's Marc J. Spears recounted some of the trash talk Green and James exchanged during the series. Green's use of the word "b---h" apparently set off the four-time MVP.

While Green is unlikely to be the Warriors' designated "LeBron stopper," his individual defense will be a big part of disrupting Cleveland's offensive game plan. Whether it's guarding him in one-on-one situations or shutting down his passing lanes, Green will look to be a thorn in James' side on every Cavaliers possession.

Beyond the ways the two players will attempt to get under one another's skin, the on-court chess match between Green and James gives NBA fans a big reason to tune into the Finals.