Draymond eyes March 14 return vs. Wizards

Golden State Warriors star Draymond Green is targeting a March 14 return against the Washington Wizards, he announced Monday on his podcast.

Green has been sidelined since Jan. 9 with a back injury. The ailment prevented him from suiting up in the All-Star Game on Feb. 20.

The 32-year-old is averaging 7.9 points, 7.6 boards, 7.4 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1.2 blocks over 34 appearances this season.

Green is a key component of the Warriors' top-ranked defense and was in contention for the NBA's Defensive Player of the Year award prior to his injury. Golden State allows just 101.5 points per 100 possessions when he's on the floor.

The Warriors have missed Green's offensive facilitation skills and defensive versatility. The club sits second in the West but has dropped eight of its last 10 games.