The Golden State Warriors really need Draymond Green to return. His back injury has left the team struggling to win in his absence.

Every one of Golden State's players has had a tougher time without Green's defense, playmaking and leadership. No other player brings what Green can and the team has struggled to play well without him. Jordan Poole is among the players who need him back. The young guard has been up-and-down without Green.

According to ESPN's Kendra Andrews, Warriors head coach Steve Kerr pointed out that Poole's responsibilities have shifted away from shooting, his strength, to playmaking, which is why he benefits so much from having Green.

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“Think about the first half of the season. … He was not really our backup point guard. He played with guys who handled the ball. He really focused on scoring and shooting. But with the injuries we've had, Jordan has had to take on playmaking duties and there's a much bigger responsibility. He's not able to just focus on getting his points. He's got to actually run the team. So I think it's more so the injuries that have an impact on him.”

The Warriors' ability to play strong teams head-on allows Kerr to remain calm. However, they are not far from sliding down the Western Conference standings. Green being back will obviously help but his absence unveiled how flawed the team is without him.

It makes sense that the Warriors have a hard time replacing such a unique player. But to be as bad as they are without Green is deeply troubling to a team with championship aspirations.