Draymond Green to Deni Avdija: 'Every time we played you, you killed us'

Golden State Warriors star Draymond Green hosted Israeli forward Deni Avdija on his podcast today (Sunday), praising the Israeli forward for his toughness on the court, and Avdija spoke about the challenges of adapting in Portland and the conversation with coach Chauncey Billups that changed his season and career.

Draymond Green, Golden State Warriors forward, hosted Israeli forward Deni Avdija on his podcast today (Sunday), 'The Draymond Green Show'. According to reports, the conversation between the two was conducted in a warm, open and mutually appreciative atmosphere.

Green opened the interview with compliments to the Israeli and said: 'Every time we played against you, you killed us. You play with aggression, with a lot of toughness, and you can't move you easily'. According to him, 'There are very few players in the league who play with such passion and dedication.'

Avdija spoke about the challenges of adapting after moving to Portland: 'I came to Portland after a good season in Washington, and at first I really struggled. I didn't feel like myself.' He described the turning point: 'I had one very significant conversation with coach Chauncey Billups. He told me to focus on one main thing and not try to do everything at once.'

Green complimented Avdija on the journey he has made: 'The way you've transformed from a player who takes only a supporting role to a leader leading a team is a move that deserves much appreciation'. Avdija concluded: 'I learned not to look for shortcuts, but to trust the daily work and the people who believe in me around me.'