Steve Kerr Is Committed to Helping Draymond Green

The Warriors’ Forward Was Suspended Indefinitely After Multiple Incidents and Is Being Encouraged to Seek Help

December 15, 2023 113 4 minutes readOpinion

Draymond Green Suspension: Kerr's Compassionate Approach — LOREN ELLIOTT / GETTY IMAGES VIA AFP

Warriors’ Values
Green's Impact
Green's Path to Betterment

Kerr Embodies the Warriors’ Values

Steve Kerr’s outlook on the Draymond Green suspension sheds light on a deeper, more compassionate approach to player management by the Golden State Warriors. Rather than merely reprimanding Green for his clash with Jusuf Nurkić on Tuesday, Kerr’s discourse suggests a commitment to Green’s overall development, both personally and professionally.

NBA news fans witnessed how Green’s on-court demeanor has frequently sparked controversy, his competitive zeal occasionally crossing into contentious territory. His most recent incident involving Nurkić is part of a pattern of behavior that has seen Green engage in physical altercations and collect technical fouls, calling his conduct into question.

Kerr, however, advocates for constructive change over simple penalization. He seeks a fundamental shift in Green’s mindset that transcends the basketball court, signaling his trust in Green’s inherent qualities—qualities like allegiance, dedication, and the strong relationships Green has nurtured within his circle.

“The one who choked Rudy, the one who took a wild flail, the one who punched Jordan last year, that’s the guy who needs to change.”
Steve Kerr on why Draymond Green’s suspension makes sense
(via @NBCSWarriors) pic.twitter.com/VsXJPb9ECd
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) December 15, 2023

Kerr’s comments transcend the conventional coach-player dynamic, portraying Green as a member of a community that extends beyond the NBA games. In advocating for Green’s transformation, Kerr demonstrates a belief in nurturing his players’ growth as individuals.

The indefinite suspension allotted to Green isn’t just a pause from playing; it’s a chance for self-reflection and personal growth. It’s also a reflective period for Kerr himself to contemplate whether more stringent measures are needed or if a supportive, guiding hand can be more effective.

The Warriors’ executives, including Mike Dunleavy Jr., have shown solidarity, opting to keep Green involved with the team activities during his suspension. This decision underscores their intent to integrate Green fully into the fabric of the team’s culture, emphasizing rehabilitation over isolation.

“We’re committed to him. He’s been here for a long time. He’s hung a ton banners and means so much to this organization… I think this is about turning this thing into a positive and getting better.”
Mike Dunleavy Jr. on Draymond
🎥 @anthonyVslater pic.twitter.com/c5ot5E0JrZ
— KNBR (@KNBR) December 14, 2023

Green’s Impact on Warriors

This stance, however, has its critics. With each new incident, apologies from Green, albeit heartfelt, are beginning to wear thin with basketball enthusiasts and observers. Each misstep by Green subtly impacts the Warriors’ collective image.

The onus of Green’s conduct is a shared responsibility. It’s about a concerted effort from everyone in the Warriors’ hierarchy to foster an atmosphere of mutual responsibility. True accountability involves everyone’s participation.

Warriors coach Steve Kerr knows that Steph Curry’s role as the team’s leader is pivotal during these trying times. His conduct sets a standard for the team, and his influence can be a positive force for Green, offering the support needed to help him during this tumultuous phase.

Steve Kerr: “For anyone to question Steph Curry’s leadership, it’s actually kind of sickening. I saw some of that yesterday. It was disgusting.” pic.twitter.com/Zmairc27Tk
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) December 15, 2023

Green’s Path to Betterment

Green apologized to Nurkić, which is a positive first step, but actions speak louder than words. For Green, the real test will be in his future behavior, demonstrating through his actions that he has taken this time for introspection seriously. For Coach Kerr and his NBA team, it’s about creating a space that encourages positive change, recognizing that true transformation takes time and patience.

Draymond Green apologies to Jusuf Nurkic:
“I didn’t intend to hit him. I sell calls with my arms… I’m not a flopper.” pic.twitter.com/rE0wICjkgF
— ً (@blazerscook) December 13, 2023

The Warriors are thus navigating a complex situation, one that involves guiding Green toward betterment while maintaining team discipline. Kerr’s stance reflects the Warriors’ core principles, and the effectiveness of their nurturing approach remains to be seen in Green’s future conduct.

The challenge lies in striking the right balance between guiding Green and holding him to account, aiming to cultivate an environment that not only aims for GSW victories in the arena but also champions the personal growth of its players.

Author: Sin City Sniper

Busting bookmakers and taking their money is his greatest joy in life. He’s been around the block more than once, knows the players both on and off the field of battle, and uses his experience to serve the bookies a heaping plate of humble pie washed down by a warm glass of their salty tears. You can find him in any number of Vegas books, sniping weak lines and getting paid to do it.

The opinions and view here expressed are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect the view of Point Spreads or any of its affiliates. Point Spreads is not responsible and does not verify for accuracy any of the articles and content pieces included herein; moreover, besides being solely the opinion or views of the authors, these content pieces are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, anyone or anything.