The NBA is sending a very clear message to the Golden State Warriors when it comes to star player Draymond Green – it’s time to make a decision. After a series of unsportsmanlike acts on the court, including multiple suspensions and ejections, the NBA seems to be reaching its tipping point. And if the league’s reaction is anything to go by, the Warriors may need to start considering a future without Green.
The latest incident in which Draymond was suspended for striking Phoenix’s Jusuf Nurkić on Tuesday is just one in a string of actions that has the NBA cracking down on the player. Despite usually apologizing for his transgressions, it seems that the patience of the league and potentially the Warriors is wearing thin.
It’s not a decision to be taken lightly. Draymond Green has been a vital part of the Warriors’ success, and his impact on the team cannot be understated. However, with 18 suspensions or ejections from the team’s first 33 games this season, it’s becoming increasingly clear that his behavior is a liability.
The Warriors have been in a position of needing to consider the future without Draymond before, but they’ve always ultimately decided to keep him on board due to his skills and impact on the team. However, with the NBA’s clear message that enough is enough, it’s becoming a question of whether it’s worth it to continue dealing with the repercussions of Draymond’s conduct.
The league’s ultimatum is putting pressure on the Warriors to make a decision. And given Draymond’s history and the league’s apparent frustration with his behavior, it’s a decision that will have to be made sooner rather than later. Whether the Warriors choose to move forward with Draymond or consider other options, the ball is in their court. And the NBA is waiting for an answer.