Five o’clock appointment for Draymond Green; have a seat in the lobby, Dr. Khaotik will be with you shortly. Doc walks to the receptionist and picks up the file of papers. “Mr. Green, follow me to exam room five. Let’s talk about this as we dissect what your actions were for this one. As you’re aware, this may have further consequences.”
Another day in the world of Draymond Green as he was ejected on Tuesday night upon striking Phoenix Suns forward Jusuf Nurkic in the face. Now… To explain the context, this is Dray’s third ejection within a month. Remember the whole choking of Timberwolves big man Rudy Gobert? Here we are back to square one with his behavior and where does the NBA go from here?
As it was announced Wednesday night, Dray has been suspended indefinitely by the NBA. Furthermore, the detrimental conduct displayed is well known based on Green’s portfolio. Striking players is nothing new under the sun; but this has been a troubling issue with him for several seasons. There’s also very thin patience with Warriors guard Steph Curry and Head Coach Steve Kerr.
As the Warriors are slowly sinking into the Pacific Ocean, it feels as if Dub Nation can no longer defend the rock of this dynasty. As a basketball fan, I gave him the doubt of protecting Klay Thompson a few weeks ago; but this one…I can’t defend whatsoever and here’s my optics. Visibly striking Nurkic did what for your ego in general? What’s the motive behind your extreme play which hurts your team?
What goes through your mind beforehand when you match up with these players? Is it to gain a psychological advantage against a player who’s not superior to you? Barking at officials gives them every reason to blow the whistle. Your ejections and lack of self-awareness is hurting your team. The body language of Steph Curry is showing signs of discontent, while trying to keep his composure without snapping at the reporters. Golden State is sinking with each loss and the ship has very few lifeboats for players aboard.
Amid this, head coach Steve Kerr must address this and other team issues to their lack of urgency. There’s only so much he can do but Draymond, you need to be more accountable and know where to stop this detrimental behavior. Are you more focused on boosting your ego and playing this mind game of nobody will stand you up? In the grand scheme of things, here’s what I feel is needed:
- NBA suspends you a minimum of 15 games with anger management sessions with league/team therapists.
- Each session is mandatory; whether it’s office or digital (Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Facetime.) All sessions are documented and sent to league offices for evaluation.
- Taking any form of prescribed medication with league approval by team doctors. Staying in shape on your own fitness facility.
- Upon completing the requirements and reviewing your progress, a reinstatement will be submitted. If cleared, resume normal basketball activities by team officials.
- If another incident occurs, mandatory 50 game suspension without pay. The appeal process can be implemented after 10 games. If denied, suspension stands as noted.
You see Draymond, the league is giving you grace; we don’t know how many games you’ll be suspended but as your sports mediator, this would be the route I’d go if the commissioner title were in my pay grade. You must control yourself Mr. Green, the value brought to this dynasty is unmatched. I understand you’re a rough rider and will go down swinging; but there’s boundaries you can’t cross.
Golden State is going to eventually sink; whether you’re there or not. Steph can only do so much as a player, but he needs you to straighten up. I say this in part from the optics of watching basketball through the 1980s & 1990s. Yes, those guys were about that life and their style of play came with adversity; but you can’t knock someone out and apologize afterwards.
Fans see this as malicious and intentional by all means; in the world of social media, it’s become trial by public opinion. Trust me, Adam Silver hears and reads just like we do. Furthermore, your extreme physical play won’t be tolerated anymore. Whatever Adam Silver decides to do, be attentive and accept the number of games handed down. You must be aware and take more accountability moving forward.
As this session concludes, is there anything else we need to discuss before the next appointment? If not, please check out at the receptionist desk and she’ll have a couple of papers to sign. Let this be a lesson learned and take care of yourself while away from the team.
Who knows what’s to come of your future as a player but I hope this is the time and place to address your behavior.
Dr. Khaotik
Stai tuned…
