Suspended Draymond Green Gets the Green Light From NBA After 12 Games

Golden State Warriors fans can finally breathe a sigh of relief. Their superstar, Draymond Green, has been given the green light from the NBA to return to action. Green had not suited up for the Warriors in the last 12 games as he was serving an indefinite suspension. The lengthy suspension was a result of the former DPOY punching Suns Center Jusuf Nurkic in the face and knocking him down during a game on December 12.

After missing 12 games to reflect on his actions and work on himself, Draymond Green is ready to start a new chapter in his 2023-24 season.

Draymond Green’s return from suspension

NBA Insider Shams Charania reports that Draymond Green has been reinstated by the league after a 12-game suspension. Green will be eligible to suit up for the next game against the Toronto Raptors tomorrow. During the 25 days of his suspension, the former DPOY stayed away from his teammates and underwent counseling to come back stronger. He was in constant touch with his team and regularly had progress meetings with the Warriors and the league. According to Shams, Green has made immense progress during his time off, and the league is happy with the work that he has done.

Warriors head coach Steve Kerr revealed Green has also been working out and staying in game shape throughout his suspension. Due to the suspension being indefinite, he did not know when he would be called back to play. So, he stayed ready to return to the court as soon as he got reinstated.

Even after his return, Green will have constant check-ins from the league to monitor his progress.

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How does Green’s return affect the Warriors?

The Golden State Warriors desperately need Draymond Green back in the lineup. Stephen Curry and Co. went 7-5 during Draymond’s 12-game suspension and barely managed to stay afloat. They felt the impact of Green’s absence during their game against the Denver Nuggets on Thursday. The Warriors blew an 18-point lead in the fourth quarter because of their abysmal defense. The Joker bullied the Warriors’ defense because they did not have any big bodies to protect the paint. Had Draymond played in that game, he could have used his toughness and experience to contain Jokic.

Green has been the defensive anchor of Golden State for many years. His defensive IQ and playmaking provide the Warriors with the freedom to move freely on offense. Draymond’s return to the line-up could have a huge positive impact on the Warriors. They are looking to get back in the winning column and bag a higher seed to get into the playoffs. And Green can facilitate that process.

How do you think the Warriors will fare with Draymond Green back in the lineup?

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