In the aftermath of Draymond Green’s indefinite suspension for striking Jusuf Nurkic in the face during a game against the Phoenix Suns, the Golden State Warriors’ forward faces renewed scrutiny and concern.
Green, having received his third ejection of the season, claimed no ill intent, but Nurkic expressed worry, stating, “What’s going on with him? I don’t know. Personally, I feel like that brother needs help.”
The NBA’s official announcement cited Green’s unsportsmanlike history and the severity of the incident during the Warriors’ loss to the Suns as grounds for the suspension.
Executive Vice President Joe Dumars outlined specific conditions for Green’s return, emphasizing the need for behavioral adjustments.
Before Wednesday’s game against the Brooklyn Nets, Nurkic spoke about Green with a tone of understanding and empathy.
“I have a lot of respect for him, obviously, even before this,” he said, per Duane Rankin of Arizona Republic, emphasizing that despite the incident, he still holds respect for Green.
Nurkic expressed concern about the challenges individuals face, stating, “It’s kind of sad to see people going in a bad direction.”
Nurkic continued by highlighting Green’s achievements, considering him an NBA champion and a potential Hall of Famer.
Despite the incident, Nurkic emphasized that he wishes for Green’s success and hopes he can overcome the challenges, stating, “I want him to succeed and still be the Draymond we all know. I have no bad feelings or any hate toward him.”
