Draymond Green sat out the final 20 minutes of the Golden State Warriors’ dominant 120-97 victory against the Orlando Magic on Monday, but it wasn’t due to a coaching decision to rest him amid the blowout.
The veteran forward exited the bench and headed to the locker room after a heated exchange with head coach Steve Kerr during the third quarter. Although Green later returned to the sidelines, Kerr chose not to reinsert him into the game.
In his 18 minutes on the court, Green contributed nine points, seven rebounds, and two assists.
Post-game, both Kerr and Green acknowledged that emotions ran high, resulting in the confrontation. They explained that Green stepped away to compose himself and stressed their intent to put the incident behind them, without delving into specifics of the exchange.
Despite their efforts to downplay the matter, questions arose about potential disciplinary action from the Warriors. Arguing with a coach is one issue, but walking off mid-game raises additional concerns—especially given Green’s history. In 2018, he faced a suspension following a verbal altercation with teammate Kevin Durant during a game against the Los Angeles Clippers, which the team viewed as detrimental conduct.
However, ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne reported that the Warriors have no plans to suspend or fine Green for his recent actions.
“I don’t expect there to be any suspension or fine or anything like that,” Shelburne stated when questioned about possible repercussions.
She further noted that Green’s decision to remove himself from the situation was interpreted as a positive development, demonstrating maturity. He recognizes the risks of saying something regrettable in the heat of the moment and the potential fallout that could follow.
Shelburne also revealed that Green had a constructive conversation with general manager Mike Dunleavy the night before speaking to the media.
With the Warriors set to take on the Dallas Mavericks in their Christmas Day matchup on Thursday, Shelburne’s update indicates Green will be cleared to participate.
Adding to this, Kerr seemed to affirm Green’s availability during Wednesday’s media session, expressing that he anticipates the 14-year NBA veteran to give his “very best” effort.