Draymond must meet criteria to return from indefinite ban

Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green. Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Warriors' Draymond Green suspended indefinitely, must meet certain standards to return

By Mike Santa Barbara | Last updated 12/14/23

The NBA has seemingly had enough of Draymond Green's antics. Following his latest on-the-court altercation, the league laid the hammer down on Wednesday, suspending the Golden State Warriors forward "indefinitely."

On Dec. 12, Green, without warning, punched Phoenix Suns center Jusuf Nurkic in the face, resulting in his ejection. Since this isn't Green's first rodeo, the league saw fit to throw the book at him.

The league's release makes it clear that Green's "repeated history of unsportsmanlike acts" played a role in the severity of the punishment. Meanwhile, Green will be able to practice with the team but must meet specific requirements set by the league before returning to play.

The following was released by the NBA. pic.twitter.com/MUyW5ygJsb
— NBA Communications (@NBAPR) December 14, 2023

What those requirements are isn't entirely clear. However, according to Shams Charnia of The Athletic, he'll work side-by-side with the Warriors and the league while receiving counseling.

Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN confirmed as much, adding that a meeting will occur on Dec. 14, including Green, Warriors general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. and his agent Rich Paul, to decide the next steps.

Furthermore, the league didn't place an exact number on Green's suspension to allow him time to "deal with the challenges he's facing."

Reports that Green will undergo counseling come after Nurkic showed concern for Green shortly after the unprovoked punch. Speaking with reporters, Nurkic seemed bewildered by the situation, saying, "I feel like that brother needs help."

The suspension is the sixth of Green's career and his second this season after serving five games for putting Rudy Gobert in a sleeper hold during a game against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Nov. 14.

Following an alarming number of confrontations, several suspensions and countless fines haven't gotten through or helped Green in the long run. The steps taken by the league may seem extreme, but it's clear they can no longer tolerate his behavior.

By forcing Green to seek help, they're going with the best and possibly the only remaining option left on the table.

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