Draymond Green has been reinstated by the NBA following a 12-game suspension for punching teammate Jordan Poole during an altercation at practice on October 5th. The incident brought intense scrutiny on Green and the Warriors organization over the past 3 months.
Lead Up to the Altercation
Tensions had reportedly been building between Green and Poole during training camp. Sources describe “simmering issues” over Poole’s lucrative contract extension and emergence as a star player. Additionally, sources say Green was unhappy with how he was being utilized in practice sessions.
The altercation occurred when Poole shoved Green during a scrimmage. Green reacted by punching Poole, which was captured on video and quickly leaked to the public, creating a media firestorm.
Initial Fallout
The Warriors announced Green would be fined but not suspended the day after the leak. However, public pressure mounted quickly, with analysts and fans insisting a suspension was warranted.
Two days later, the team changed course and announced Green would be away from the team for an undetermined period. On October 15th he was handed an official 12-game suspension without pay.
Timeline of Key Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| October 5 | Altercation occurs at practice |
| October 6 | Video leaked publicly |
| October 7 | Warriors announce fine for Green |
| October 9 | Undetermined leave from team announced |
| October 15 | 12-game suspension made official |
Green’s Absence Impacts Team Performance
The Warriors struggled initially without Green, one of their emotional leaders and defensive anchors. They started the season 3-7, including 1-5 on the road.
However, Stephen Curry took over more offensive responsibility and young players like Poole and Kuminga stepped up. The team seemed to find its footing, winning 7 of their next 8 games heading into Green’s return.
Green Considers Retirement During Suspension
In an interview last week, Green revealed he considered retiring during his time away from the team. He credits a conversation with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver for talking him out of this decision.
“If Adam Silver didn’t call me and ask me not to [retire], I would have,” said Green.
He went on to explain the suspension gave him an opportunity for self-reflection that he didn’t expect.
Efforts to Make Amends with Poole
Sources close to the team say Green has put significant effort into rebuilding trust with Poole and other teammates. He has taken accountability for his actions in conversations with players and coaches.
Additionally, Green organized a team dinner prior to his reinstatement, footing the bill as a gesture to continue mending fences. Attendees say his speech was emotional and well-received.
Uncertainty About Green’s Role Moving Forward
With the Warriors playing well in Green’s absence, his exact role moving forward remains unclear. Coach Steve Kerr has been noncommittal about whether he will insert Green back into the starting lineup immediately.
There is also a question of how Green’s emotional, demanding leadership style will mesh with the growth of young stars like Poole in more prominent roles. Striking the right balance will be critical for Kerr and the Warriors.
Green’s Reinstatement Announced
On January 6th, 2023, the Warriors announced the NBA approved Green’s return from suspension. He re-joined the team in practice over the weekend and traveled with the team for Monday’s game in San Antonio, though he is not expected to play.
In a statement, Green said:
“I failed as a leader. I’m excited to reunite with my teammates and do whatever is necessary to earn their trust again.”
Only time will tell if Green can live up to those words and help lead the Warriors back to championship contention.
Overall the story shows the layers of complexity around this situation – an emotional leader making a serious misstep, grappling with the fallout, and trying to prove he deserves another chance. Green’s suspension was an inflection point that threatened to derail the Warriors dynasty. How he and the team respond in its wake will determine their capacity to recapture championship form.
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