Draymond Green Praises Doug Christie’s Impact as Kings Interim Coach

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green recently praised Doug Christie’s success as the Sacramento Kings’ interim coach, attributing the team’s improved performance to Christie’s strategic adjustments and leadership. Green shared his insights on the latest episode of his podcast, “The Draymond Green Show.”

“I’m not surprised at all,” Green said. “I know what they’re capable of, and I think Doug has probably made small fixes with practice and more Malik Monk minutes. The whole sixth man thing is cool, but all of a sudden you’re down and need to get your best guns on the floor. I think he’s done some minor tweaks that were right there in their face.”

Green emphasized the importance of effort in the NBA, noting that Christie has managed to inspire his players to work hard. “When you got guys that are playing for you, that goes a long way,” he added.

In a conversation with co-host and former Warriors guard Baron Davis, Green also speculated on the reasons behind former Kings coach Mike Brown’s departure in late December. “I’m not very surprised because I felt like Mike [Brown] kind of lost the guys,” Green said. “I think a large part of losing the guys was the amount they were practicing. A lot of guys started feeling a certain way about that.”

Since taking over, Christie, a former Kings player and assistant coach, has led the team to a 9-2 record, propelling Sacramento to eighth place in the Western Conference. Green believes Christie’s success could lead to a permanent coaching role. “So, Doug, keep it up,” Green said. “He’s going to find himself with a job moving forward, not just as the interim coach of the Sacramento Kings.”

Green highlighted Christie’s dedication to the organization, stating, “One thing is for certain: he’s put the time in. When it comes to that organization, Doug Christie has put the time in, probably more than anyone involved with the organization, including the ownership group. If he keeps winning and doing what he’s doing, he’s going to have himself a job moving forward, and it will be well deserved.”