Draymond Green was ejected from the Golden State Warriors‘ loss to the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday after he struck Jusuf Nurkic in the face. The incident occurred early in the third quarter as both big men were jostling for position. Green recently returned to the Warriors’ rotation following his suspension for putting Rudy Gobert in a chokehold.
When speaking to the media after the game, Nurkic discussed the incident, joking he was glad Green didn’t attempt to choke him. Nurkic also noted how he hopes Green’s current situation improves.
“What’s going on with him? I don’t know,” Nurkic said. “I’m glad he’s not trying to choke me. But, at the same time, it has nothing to do with basketball. I’m just out there trying to play basketball, you know? I hope whatever he’s got (going on) in his life gets better.”
Green will likely face a suspension once the league has reviewed the incident. The Warriors’ forward is an important member of the rotation. However, he has been ejected three times in the 15 games he’s played. Green’s absences have been a body blow for a Warriors team looking to turn its season around.
"Personally, I feel like that brother needs help."
Jusuf Nurkic responded after taking a punch from Draymond Green.
(via @NBAonTNT) pic.twitter.com/OEv8eqUpxo
— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) December 13, 2023
Following their latest loss, the Warriors are 10-13 and continue to reside in 11th place in the Western Conference. Green’s impending suspension will put further pressure on the rest of the roster to step up. Unfortunately for Golden State, multiple veterans are out of rhythm, and that’s compounding its overall struggles.
