Top Story: Draymond Green returned to practicing with the Warriors following his suspension.
Draymond Green rejoined the Golden State Warriors in practice on Sunday, following his NBA reinstatement after a 12-game suspension. He returned to the team bench during their game against the Toronto Raptors, actively participating in timeouts and huddles.
Klay Thompson expressed the team’s anticipation for Green’s return to the lineup, highlighting his pivotal role in the team’s dynamics. However, Coach Steve Kerr wasn’t certain about when Green would be game-ready after his extended absence due to self-improvement efforts following an incident with Jusuf Nurkic.
Currently, Green is starting his routine shooting exercises and working with the team’s health and performance VP, Rick Celebrini, to assess his readiness for games. Kerr acknowledged the uncertainty regarding Green’s basketball activity during his time away.
Previously, Green faced a five-game suspension in November for an altercation with Rudy Gobert. The league lifted his recent suspension, acknowledging his efforts to align with NBA conduct standards, which involved counseling sessions and joint meetings with league representatives, Warriors, and the Players Association.
Green, a vital part of the Warriors’ championship history, has a reputation for his fiery playstyle but has at times crossed lines, leading to ejections. Kerr and the team hope for his return with the same intensity without overstepping boundaries.
Nonetheless, Green’s return to the Chase Center has already uplifted team spirits, as he brings leadership and positivity back to the squad.
