Golden State Warriors Forward Draymond Green Ejected from Game
Golden State Warriors’ forward Draymond Green was ejected from the team’s recent contest against the Orlando Magic in less than four minutes into the first quarter. The incident took place after teammate Andrew Wiggins was called for a foul at the 8:24 mark of the opening frame. Green promptly expressed his thoughts to the officials regarding the call, resulting in his first technical foul.
Warriors head coach Steve Kerr attempted to diffuse the situation by calling a timeout; however, Green persisted, leading the officials to issue him a second technical foul, ultimately ending his participation in the game. This marks the fourth ejection for Green in the current season, in addition to the 9th and 10th technical fouls he has received.
Earlier in the season, Green, aged 34, was suspended for five games following an altercation with Rudy Gobert and the Minnesota Timberwolves. Approximately a month later, in December, Green was once again ejected and subsequently suspended for striking Jusuf Nurkic in the face. The league opted for an indefinite suspension this time, citing Green’s repeated history of unsportsmanlike conduct. His ejection for hitting Nurkic marked the 18th of his career, standing as the most among active NBA players.
Green’s Apology and Return
In light of his suspension, Green issued a public apology, disclosing that he had enrolled in counseling services during his time off. He returned to the court on Jan. 3 after a 16-game absence, demonstrating a more composed demeanor since the incident involving Nurkic.
However, recent events have shown a resurgence of disruptive behavior from Green. On Mar. 20, he received a technical foul following an on-court altercation with Desmond Bane of the Memphis Grizzlies. Furthermore, less than 24 hours before his ejection against the Magic, Green went unpunished for clotheslining Miami Heat guard Patty Mills.
Team Impact and Current Standings
With Green ejected from the game, the Warriors were already missing Jonathan Kuminga due to knee tendinitis, leaving them without both starting forwards. Despite the setbacks, Green has appeared in 46 games for Golden State this season, averaging 8.8 points, 7.3 rebounds, and six assists.
At present, the Warriors hold a record of 37-34, securing the 10th spot in the competitive Western Conference standings.
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