The 2022-23 NBA season is set to kick off in a matter of days. The Golden State Warriors will play their final pre-season game against the Denver Nuggets on Friday, ahead of the season opener on October 18. However, the Warriors have been surrounded by a great deal of negativity after the physical incident between teammate Draymond Green and Jordan Poole. Green punched Poole after the two got involved in a verbal argument during practice on October 5. Thus, the biggest question among the critics and fans is if Green will play in the game tonight or not.
Moreover, reports about Jordan Poole’s perspective on Green’s suspension have also dropped a massive hint about the Warriors forward’s presence tonight. The video of the physical altercation went viral and Green received a great deal of backlash. Many fans and critics wanted the Warriors to suspend Draymond Green.
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However, after a vigorous process of internal discussions involving Stephen Curry, the Golden State Warriors chose to fine Green instead of suspending him. The news came as a surprise to many in the NBA fraternity. But it seems to be the right thing to do for the team with just a few days left before the start of a new season.
Jordan Poole opposes the idea of suspending Draymond Green?
Recently, ESPN’s Marc Spears revealed that one player who did not want Green to be suspended was Jordan Poole. Spears told NBA Today that Poole and Green were asked to speak in front of the team. Poole reckoned that he did not think a suspension for the four-time NBA champ was necessary.
The NBA Insider suggested that the Warriors’ management handed the decision-making about Green’s suspension to the team. However, the players chose to refrain from suspending Green as it was not their decision to make. The management, players, and ownership ultimately decided to issue a fine against Green.
The four-time All-Star apologized to Poole and the team following his lapse of control. After avoiding suspension, Draymond Green decided to step away from the team for a few days. However, Poole’s verdict on Green’s suspension suggests that he is still a valuable asset to the team.
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Thus, it is highly likely that Green will play tonight’s encounter. He might also play the October 18th season-opener against the Los Angeles Lakers, as suggested by head coach Steve Kerr previously.
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The Warriors will hope to rebuild the chemistry between Poole and Green. Their roles will be crucial for the team during their title defense next season.