Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green (23) controls the ball against the Minnesota Timberwolves during the third quarter at Chase Center. Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports

ESPN's Jay Williams wants 10-game suspension for Draymond Green

By Adam Taylor | Last updated 11/15/23

Draymond Green is likely facing a suspension from the NBA. He was ejected from the Golden State Warriors games against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Tuesday. During an on-court altercation, Green put Rudy Gobert in a choke hold and dragged him to the floor.

The veteran forward's actions have sparked a fierce debate online. Fans are split on how severe his punishment should be. However, ESPN analyst Jay Williams believes he should be suspended for 10 games.

"I get the history. These guys were chirping last game...You can't choke him out and then drag him all the way back. To me, I think that's a minimum 10-game suspension...To put somebody in a choke hold during the in-season tournament, while we all know the league is trying to create positive publicity. This is a critical moment. I love Draymond. I would love for any teammate to fight for me in that regard."

How many games should Draymond Green be suspended for?@RealJayWilliams and @stephenasmith DISAGREE pic.twitter.com/9JkxmJQRGU
— First Take (@FirstTake) November 15, 2023

Green has always played the role of an enforcer for the Warriors. He has a history of physicality throughout his career. We're only a year removed from the situation that the veteran punched Jordan Poole during the Warriors 2022 training camp. It's part of the reason Poole was traded this summer. The NBA will likely come down hard on the four-time champion. The in-season tournament is the league's next step in growing its revenue stream and attracting new fans.

It wouldn't be unreasonable for the league to view Green's actions as detrimental to the growth of the new tournament. His history of altercations could also go against him in the league's decision-making process. Nevertheless, the Warriors won't be too concerned. We're early enough into the season that they can make up any lost ground. Green was defending Klay Thompson, which is a good sign for the overall chemistry of the roster.

Asking Green to play with less tenacity would shackle what makes him such an elite competitor. It's what's made him such an elite glue guy throughout his career. Green will serve whatever punishment the league throws his way. Yet, when he returns to the court, he will be the exact same player he was leading up to his latest suspension.

History has taught us that an aggressive Draymond Green is conducive to the Warriors competing for a championship. He isn't going to change. Whether that's a good or bad thing will remain open for debate.

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