NBA Has Reinstated Draymond Green After Missing 12 Games Due To Suspension

During the suspension period, Green engaged in meetings with a counselor and participated in joint discussions with representatives from the NBA, the Golden State Warriors, and the NBAPA. These discussions are expected to continue throughout the season to ensure ongoing support and adherence to professional standards.

Green's return to the Warriors is anticipated to take approximately a week as he ramps up for game readiness. During Draymond Green's 12-game suspension, he incurred a financial penalty totaling $1,847,291. This amount represents the cost of the suspension in terms of lost salary for the games missed during this period.

The Warriors, who saw a decrease in their projected tax bill from $192.5 million to $183.7 million during Green's suspension, will now have one roster spot available.

Following the league's reinstatement of Draymond Green, ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski reported that Green is expected to take approximately a week to ramp up for a return to the game. This period is likely designated for Green to regain his conditioning, integrate back into team practices, and ensure that he is fully prepared to contribute on the court after the 12-game absence. 

Draymond Green's absence was notable for the Warriors, and his reinstatement is likely to provide a boost to the team's defensive capabilities and overall on-court presence. As Green returns to action, the Warriors will aim to leverage his skills and experience to maintain their competitive edge in the Western Conference.

The Warriors Have Done Well Without Draymond Green 

During Draymond Green's absence from the Golden State Warriors, the team has surprisingly performed well, going 7-5 in the 12 games he missed. This successful stretch has propelled the Warriors back into the top 10 of the competitive Western Conference.

Jonathan Kuminga stepped up admirably, filling in for Green in the starting lineup. Kuminga's contributions were noteworthy, averaging 14.3 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 2.3 assists while showcasing efficient shooting percentages of 56.1% from the field and 26.7% from beyond the arc.

The Warriors, as a collective unit, experienced a shift in their performance metrics. The team's offensive rating improved from their season average of 116.2 to 120.8, elevating them from the 13th to the 9th spot in the league. However, their defensive efficiency took a hit, dropping from 115.7 (ranking 20th) to 119.8 (ranking 23rd).

Despite the team's commendable performance without Green, his return is eagerly anticipated. As a versatile and impactful player, Green brings valuable skills to both ends of the court. Before his suspension, Green was contributing 9.7 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game while shooting efficiently at 49.0% from the field and an impressive 42.9% from beyond the three-point line.

The timing of Green's return aligns with the unfortunate injury setback for Chris Paul, who hurt his hand against the Pistons and is set to undergo surgery. With Paul's absence and uncertain timetable for return, Green's comeback becomes even more crucial for the Warriors as they navigate the challenges of the NBA season.