Phoenix Suns Shine Without Their Trio: Is Draymond Green's Behavior a Cause for Concern?

Draymond Green of the Golden State Warriors publicly apologized to Jusuf Nurkic for his swinging hit above the shoulders during a recent game. Green explained that the action was unintentional and was an attempt to sell a foul, though his explanation has been met with skepticism. Nurkic, on the other hand, suggested that Green might need help, hinting at deeper issues.

Green's behavior this season has already led to a suspension due to violent conduct (and it is anticipated that he may face another suspension for this incident). Just a few weeks ago, Green spoke about the importance of staying on the court for his teammates, yet he lost control again. His actions, though not solely responsible for the Warriors' failed comeback, still played a part. The concern is that if Green's behavior continues unchecked, it could further complicate the Warriors' path forward.

In other news, Phoenix Suns fans have been eagerly waiting to see their team's three stars - Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal - play together. Unfortunately, they will have to wait a bit longer. Durant has played 19 games, Booker 13, and Beal only 3 this season due to a back injury that has kept him sidelined since November 9th, following games against the Chicago Bulls, Los Angeles Lakers, and Oklahoma City Thunder. The absence of any one of these stars significantly impacts the Suns, as evident from their current record of 12 wins and 10 losses, placing them 9th in the Western Conference.

In a recent game against the Warriors, Bradley Beal finally made his return, but Durant had to sit out due to an ankle issue after the pre-game warm-up, which was a disappointment for fans. Before the game, Durant shared a long embrace with Shaun Livingston, a key contributor to the Warriors’ championship runs and Durant's former teammate. This moment was likely more poignant given Draymond Green's loss of control during the game. The Warriors of the past, with the leadership of players like Livingston and Andre Iguodala in the locker room, seldom faced such issues. Green, provoked by Nurkic's antics, reacted inexcusably, and perhaps the one who most deserves an apology from him is Stephen Curry, who was visibly frustrated by the incident.