NBA fans are calling for yet another suspension for Draymond Green, as the Warriors superstar was ejected for whacking one of his opponents in the face with a hard right hand. This incident occurred during the third quarter of Golden State’s game against the Suns in Phoenix on Tuesday. Green appeared to be trying to back down Jusuf Nurkic during an inbounds play when the altercation took place. As Green attempted to maneuver into the paint, Nurkic provided resistance, prompting Draymond to spin around, flail his arms, and make contact with the Suns center’s head. Nurkic immediately crumpled in pain, and shortly after, Green was hit with a flagrant foul 2 and tossed from the game. This marks Green’s third ejection this season and the second one since he was given the boot for putting Rudy Gobert in a chokehold during the Warriors’ game against the Timberwolves last month.
Key Takeaway
Draymond Green was ejected from a game against the Suns after hitting Jusuf Nurkic in the head, marking his third ejection this season.
Apology and Reactions
Following the game, Green expressed that he didn’t intend to hit Nurkic and apologized for his actions, stating, “I sell calls with my arms. I don’t fall to sell a call. I’m not a flopper. So I was just selling the call ’cause he was grabbing me and pulling my hip back. So, I spun away and unfortunately I hit him.” Meanwhile, Nurkic, though not pleased with the play, managed to maintain a sense of humor, commenting, “Personally, I feel like that brother needs help. I’m glad he didn’t try to choke me.”
Past Suspensions and Expectations
Green has a history of suspensions for similar acts, including a five-game ban in November for his altercation with Gobert. Many anticipate a suspension to be handed down for the Nurkic incident as well, with the only question being the duration of Green’s forced absence. The Warriors, with Green in the locker room, went on to lose to the Suns with a final score of 119-116.
