Despite a win over the Suns, Draymond Green’s ejection raised familiar questions about the Warriors’ emotional discipline and control.
The incident came in a tense stretch of the game in the second quarter, briefly shifting momentum and forcing Golden State to adjust without one of its defensive leaders. While the Warriors narrowly found a way to be victorious, Green’s exit served as a reminder of an issue that continues to follow the team.
Warriors’ Emotional Discipline Tested After Draymond Ejection
How the Ejection Shifted the Game
During the second quarter, with the Suns holding a 12-point lead, Green became involved in an altercation with Collin Gillespie after blocking his shot. Moments later, following a fouled three-point shot by Stephen Curry, Green shoved Gillespie and continued to argue with the referees. He received two technical fouls, resulting in his ejection.
Some may argue the decision on Green was “weak,” suggesting it reflected not only the incident itself but also his long-standing reputation for confrontations, aggression, and on-court antics. However, the ejection once again reinforces a familiar challenge for Golden State when it comes to managing Green’s emotional edge in high-pressure situations like this. While the Warriors ultimately emerged with a win, maintaining composure will be crucial if they are serious about securing a playoff spot as the season progresses.
Draymond Green’s Edge Remains a Double-Edged Sword
Green’s intensity has long been central to his value for the Warriors. Despite consistently bringing heart and elite defense to the court, the four-time NBA All-Star also brings drama and emotional intensity to games. When controlled, this extra edge elevates them and fuels their identity. With the NBA world aware that it may be now or never for Curry and Green in the Bay, the pressure continues to mount.
Technical fouls, ejections, and suspensions have followed Green throughout his career since 2012. Last season, he accumulated 18 technical fouls, and this year he already has six, placing him among the NBA’s leaders. But moments like this in Phoenix remind everyone how quickly momentum can shift when emotion overrides control. While the Dubs have found ways to navigate problems like this in the past, their margin for error is considerably smaller right now compared to their championship years.
As the season progresses and fighting for a respectable seed becomes tougher, Golden State must balance Green’s emotional edge with discipline. For a team fighting for survival in the middle of a crowded Western Conference, the Warriors just can’t afford to slip up.
Why Golden State Can’t Afford These Moments
The time is now for Golden State.
Their win over Phoenix doesn’t erase the underlying issue. Whether the call on Green was harsh or not, these situations simply shouldn’t be happening. Green remains a vital asset for the Warriors, once described as the “heartbeat” of the franchise by head coach Steve Kerr.
However, the Dubs can’t afford a four-time All-Defensive player being ejected during crucial stretches of games, especially while the team is not even in a playoff position. With the Warriors having already lost seven games this season by five points or fewer, every possession counts. In tight high-pressure situations like this, leadership and on-court presence become essential. And with 2026 approaching, the games ahead will only become more tense, controversial, and emotionally charged. How the Dubs handle that pressure will ultimately shape the outcome of their season.
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