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Draymond Green Returns to Warriors After Suspension Hiatus

FILE - Golden State Warriors guard Klay Thompson, front, and Draymond Green, left, gets into an altercation with Minnesota Timberwolves center Rudy Gobert, back, during the first half of an in-season

There's a buzz in the air as Draymond Green returns to practice with the Golden State Warriors. After serving a 12-game suspension handed down by the NBA, Green is back on the court and ready to make his mark. Coach Steve Kerr couldn't hide his excitement, stating, 'He looks good, he's excited to be here. Good to have him back.'

Green's suspension came after an incident where he struck Phoenix center Jusuf Nurkic in the face during a game on December 12th. The forward took this time away from the game to reflect and work on himself. Now, as he rejoins the team, the question on everyone's minds is when he'll be ready to play again.

Kerr admits the timeline is uncertain. Green will slowly ramp up his activities, starting with his regular shooting routine. He will work closely with the Warriors' vice president of player health and performance, Rick Celebrini, to determine his fitness level and readiness for game action. The plan includes gradually increasing his involvement in scrimmages, much like the protocol for a player returning from an injury.

Phoenix Suns guard Bradley Beal (3) drives on Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green (23) during the second half of an NBA basketball game, Tuesday, Dec. 12, 2023, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
FILE - Golden State Warriors guard Klay Thompson, front, and Draymond Green, left, gets into an altercation with Minnesota Timberwolves center Rudy Gobert, back, during the first half of an in-season NBA tournament basketball game in San Francisco, Nov. 14, 2023. Green has been suspended indefinitely by the NBA on Wednesday, Dec. 13. (AP Photo/Jed Jacobsohn, File)
Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green (23) jogs off the court after getting ejected during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Phoenix Suns, Tuesday, Dec. 12, 2023, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)

The fiery and emotional Green had already served a five-game suspension earlier in November for a chokehold incident involving Minnesota's Rudy Gobert. The league acknowledged Green's commitment to improving his conduct during his latest suspension, leading to its end. Green engaged in counseling sessions and had joint meetings with representatives from the NBA, the Warriors, and the National Basketball Players Association.

Now, with his suspension behind him, Green aims to bring back his trademark energy and competitiveness to the court while staying within the bounds of fair play. Kerr and the Warriors are hopeful that Green will find the right balance and avoid crossing the line in his intensity.

The return of Green has brought a positive energy to the team, evident in the practice sessions and timeouts. His presence in the huddles and his eagerness to contribute have given the Warriors a boost. Kerr acknowledges the impact, saying, 'Everybody's excited to see him, it's great to have him back. He's one of our leaders, and he's happy to be back, so it's a good vibe in there.'

As Green continues his journey to regain his form and make a positive impact for the Warriors, fans are eagerly awaiting his return to the court. The four-time NBA champion has proven time and time again that he is a key component in the team's success. With his intensity and passion, Green is a force to be reckoned with, and his presence alone can ignite the team and its supporters.

So, as we await news of Draymond Green's official comeback, let's bask in the positive vibes and hope for an awe-inspiring return from one of the game's most dynamic players. The wait won't be long, and when Green finally steps back onto the court, expect fireworks and an electrifying display of passion and skill that only he can deliver.

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