Suspended Warriors forward Draymond Green could be back on the court sooner than expected, after he was suspended “indefinitely” by the NBA on December 13.
ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowksi provided the latest update on Green’s situation and return.
“Green is allowed to condition and practice with the Warriors, but it is unlikely he returns to the team facility on a regular basis before early January, sources said,” Wojnarowski said. “Among those involved in this process, there’s a general belief that his suspension will cover a range of 11 to 13 games — barring any setbacks.”
Green was dealt the suspension after hitting Phoenix big man Jusuf Nurkic in the face on December 12, which Green claimed was an accident and that he was simply trying to sell the foul.
It marked Green’s second suspension for 2023-24, following his headlock on Rudy Gobert earlier in the season.
ESPN insider Wojnarowski also explained how four-time NBA champion Green is participating in “periodic virtual meetings”, which are charting his progress toward reinstatement.
“Green’s agent, Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul, Warriors general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr., team trainer Rick Celebrini, NBPA and NBA officials are part of these ongoing sessions, sources said,” Wojnarowski reported.
“These meetings are a part of what the NBA described as “certain league and team conditions” that Green must fulfill before his suspension is lifted…”
Draymond is seen as a vital cog to Golden State’s engine, however since his suspension, the team are 5-7 and enjoyed five straight victories before their 120-114 loss to the Nuggets on Christmas Day.
The 33-year-old has been suspended a total of six times during his 12 NBA seasons.
Green (147 career techs) is also the only player over the past five seasons who has received more than 20 technicals.