Four-time NBA champion Draymond Green has raised questions about Kevin Love’s recent praise of the reigning NBA champions, the Oklahoma City Thunder, and their general manager Sam Presti.
While discussing the NBA’s new collective bargaining agreement and the second-apron rules in a video posted to the Heat Central X account, Love referred to Presti as “the greatest,” praising his long-term vision, patience and commitment to drafting and developing talent. Moreover, he also went on to criticize the luxury tax system, calling it unfair for teams that draft well and are later punished financially for keeping their core together.
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It is worth noting that Presti’s reputation has only grown stronger following Oklahoma City’s 2025 NBA championship. The championship validated years of asset accumulation, smart drafting and internal development, with guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leading the way after winning MVP.
What Did Draymond Green Have to Say About Kevin Love’s Statement?
Draymond Green’s issue was not with Presti’s accomplishment, but with what he saw as selective recognition. Reacting to Love’s comments, the Golden State Warriors star responded to Love’s statement on Threads and said, “Where was this energy when the Dubs drafted their team?” His frustration is rooted in the Golden State’s own history.
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Under former general manager Bob Myers, the Warriors drafted Steph Curry, Klay Thompson and Draymond Green, then strategically added Kevin Durant. That drafted core produced one of the most dominant dynasties in NBA history, winning championships in 2015, 2017, 2018 and 2022. Despite being largely homegrown, the Warriors were often criticized during their peak years, particularly for massive luxury tax payments rather than praised for elite team-building.
Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander celebrates the team’s championship.Bryan Terry/USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
(Bryan Terry/USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images)
Love’s perspective is shaped by his past as well. He was a central figure in the Cleveland Cavaliers teams that faced Golden State in four consecutive NBA Finals from 2015 to 2018. Now, as Oklahoma City enters an expensive phase of contention, Love has voiced concern over a system that penalizes success built through the draft.
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According to Spotrac, the Thunder’s payroll this season sits at approximately $186 million, ranking 15th in the league. Projections for next season place their total salaries near $246 million, which would make Oklahoma City the highest-spending team in the NBA and push them beyond the luxury tax threshold.
At the heart of the exchange, Love is criticizing the system. Draymond is defending legacy. And together, their comments underline a growing tension in the NBA: Draft the right way, win championships and eventually pay the price for it.
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This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Jan 28, 2026, where it first appeared in the NBA section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.