The NBA suspending Draymond Green for game three of the Kings and Warriors series is undeniably a fumbled moment from the NBA. There’s no question Draymond was wrong in how he reacted with Sabonis But, the punishment handed down feels excessive given the moment.
It does feel like a situation of double jeopardy. Draymond was penalized in game two with an ejection from the game. In addition, he had to serve a suspension from game three. Fans understand that the playoffs get physical. There is a lot on the line in each game. Sometimes things happen. It seems like Draymond's suspension had more to do with his history than the play itself. Regardless of why the NBA chose to go in the direction they went, the punishment put the Warriors at a disadvantage going into game three.
The Warriors were already facing challenges dealing with the speed, pace, and youth of the Sacramento Kings. The absence of Draymond Green, their leader, created even more of an issue for the Sacramento Kings.
Thankfully the Warrior's championship DNA shined through in game three. They were able to come out on top with the win. Steph and Klay both showed their championship pedigree. They played with a level of desperation and poise. Their other role players, Andrew Wiggins, Kevin Looney, and Jordan Poole, chipped in to help secure the win.
Going into game four, with Draymond Green back in the lineup, the Warriors were in a great position to even the series. They were playing at home with the momentum of winning game three. The Warriors ended up bringing Draymond off the bench. They wanted to play with pace and stick with what made them successful in game three.
In game three, there would be a lot of back and forth throughout the game. The Warriors were ultimately able to come out on top with the win. It came after an eventful ending. Sacramento had an opportunity to win at the buzzer.
It has been reported, Fox will be doubtful in game five due to a fracture he sustained in game four. Fox presented many issues for the Warriors defensively. Fox’s speed and craftiness have been a challenge for the Warriors. They do not have one defender who can stay in front of him and slow him down. Fox is undeniably the catalyst for their fast pace offense. If the Warriors do not have to deal with him moving forward, they should be able to come out on top in this series without issue.
The first four games of this series have been eventful. There’s been a lot of back and forth between the two teams. But, it does appear that the Warriors have found their bearings. They are the more experienced team with a championship pedigree. Now that they potentially will not have to deal with De'Aaron Fox, they are in a great position to win the series. The Warriors still have to go out there and perform. They are in a great spot heading back to Sacramento for game 5.