Golden State Warriors’ CEO Mike Dunleavy has announced that the team and Draymond Green are working with the NBA to establish terms for his suspension. According to the NBA’s statement, Green will need to meet certain requirements from the league and the team before being allowed to return to play.
Meeting Among Relevant Parties
Dunleavy’s representative and Green’s agent, Rich Paul, have met with the player to discuss counseling options. Dunleavy stated, “We understand that a penalty will be imposed, but this is also an opportunity to help him return. They (NBA) have fully agreed with this, and Draymond does as well.”
Accident or Violent Act?
Draymond Green insists that the swing at Nurkic’s face was an accident, yet he was still ejected for a violent punch akin to that of a boxer.
History of Unsportsmanlike Conduct
This marks the third time Green has been ejected this season. He caused a scene on November 14 when he was thrown out for choking Minnesota Timberwolves center Rudy Gobert. Given his history of unsportsmanlike behavior, the NBA has suspended him indefinitely following this latest incident.
Unprecedented Form of Punishment
An indefinite suspension is a rare form of punishment imposed by the NBA. Recent examples of severe suspensions include a 25-game ban for Ja Morant of the Memphis Grizzlies in June after he was found handling a gun in an online video, and a 30-game suspension for Miles Bridges of the Charlotte Hornets in April due to domestic violence allegations.
Coach Steve Kerr’s Concern
Warriors head coach Steve Kerr acknowledges that his player needs help.
“To me, this is not just about basketball. I think this is an opportunity for Draymond to step outside and make changes in how he approaches issues in his life. We need to help Draymond, give him the support he needs. This is about giving him a chance to make a change that will benefit not only our team but also himself for the rest of his life. This isn’t just a spur-of-the-moment incident on the court. This is about his life.”
