Warriors’ Green Suspended Indefinitely for Striking Suns’ Nurkic
In a decisive move, the NBA has suspended Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green indefinitely, marking his third ejection of the season. The suspension comes on the heels of Green’s forceful strike to the face of Phoenix Suns’ Jusuf Nurkic during Tuesday’s game.
The league cited Green’s repeated history of unsportsmanlike behavior as a factor in the decision, stating that the suspension would commence immediately. Green will only be eligible to return to play after meeting specific conditions set by both the league and the team.
This latest incident follows Green’s earlier ejections on November 11 against the Cleveland Cavaliers and a subsequent clash with Minnesota Timberwolves’ Rudy Gobert. The latter resulted in a five-game suspension for Green, who showed little remorse at the time.
In response to the recent incident, Green expressed regret, stating, “I am not one to apologize for things I mean to do, but I do apologize to Jusuf because I didn’t intend to hit him.” He attributed the action to an unintended consequence while attempting to sell a call.
Warriors head coach Steve Kerr emphasized the team’s need for Green, urging him to maintain composure and support his teammates.
“We need him. We need Draymond. He knows that.“We’ve talked to him. He’s got to find a way to keep his poise and be out there for his team-mates.”
Former teammate Kevin Durant expressed concern for Green’s well-being, saying, “I hope he gets the help he needs.”
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/62330272/usa_today_10653974.0.jpg)
The suspension raises questions about Green’s future conduct and the impact of his absence on the Warriors’ performance in the upcoming games.
“That was insane to see. Glad Nurk is alright. Never seen that before on a basketball court in an NBA game. I hope Draymond gets the help he needs. It’s been incident after incident,” Durant said.
“I know Draymond, and he hasn’t been that way when I was around coming into the league.“Hopefully, he gets the help he needs and gets back on the court, and puts all the stuff behind him.”