Quick reinstatement of Draymond Green could come back to haunt NBA

Green landed an unprovoked punch to the face of Phoenix Suns center Jusif Nurkic on Dec. 12, resulting in his suspension, which included mandatory counseling. 

Following his second suspension this season alone, the league took extreme measures, and everyone involved said all the right things. 

The NBA's hardline showed they were serious about prompting change from Green, who already had a history of violent outbursts. Meanwhile, Warriors head coach Steve Kerr said giving his player time to change was more important than handing down a suspension with an arbitrary number of games attached. 

In the end, the suspension lasted only 12 games. 

More qualified people could say whether or not the last few weeks offered enough time to make a genuine impact on Green. However, from the outside, it seems like a quick turnaround, to say the least.  

Despite the short time frame, "both sides" were pleased with Green's progress. Furthermore, he'll receive counseling, with regular check-ins expected to continue even after he returns to the hardwood for the Warriors. 

The hope is that Green is now on the right path, or at least is headed there. Yet, history says no amount of games or money taken away has been enough to deter him from lashing out at opposing players and teammates. 

He's also returning to a Warriors team in flux. Not only are they barely in the Western Conference playoff picture at 17-18, but Jonathan Kuminga made waves recently after voicing his displeasure with playing time. 

So, it is not the ideal atmosphere for someone trying to control their emotions and anger. 

No one's rooting for Green to fail. However, if he slips up again, it won't be the best look for the league or the Warriors, who had a chance not to send a message to the four-time All-Star but to give him an honest opportunity to help himself.