Many opine that NBA referees exhibit favoritism towards certain players when making foul calls, but it’s unlikely that outspoken and controversial figures like Draymond Green benefit from such leniency. During the Golden State Warriors’ 119-103 loss to the Denver Nuggets, Green found himself on the wrong end of a missed call late in the game, involving Nikola Jokic. Despite the frustration at the time, Green appears to have moved on from the incident, as indicated by his current demeanor.
With just over four minutes left in the fourth quarter, Jokic appeared to push off Green before receiving the ball from Reggie Jackson. However, the whistle didn’t blow until Jackson grabbed Jokic while he was driving to the basket.
Understandably, Green reacted strongly to the controversial sequence of events. However, he quickly reconciled with Jokic, the two-time MVP.
Reflecting on the incident on the Draymond Green Show, Green explained, “Joker caught me with the shoulder in the chin, and they didn’t call an offensive foul, and I wrapped him up. And as we were coming back down the court, he said, ‘Bro, that was definitely a foul, 100 percent a foul, but I didn’t do it on purpose.’ And I’m like, ‘No, I know you didn’t do it on purpose, which is why I didn’t foul you hard and just kind of wrapped you up.'”
Draymond Green is excited about the chance to play Nikola Jokic.
Jokic’s quiet demeanor may sometimes lead to him being labeled as “boring,” but instances like this conversation showcase his distinctive personality. Green’s straightforward nature appreciates honesty, evident in how the four-time champion admires the Nuggets’ dominant player.
“I enjoy competing against players where there’s a mutual acknowledgment of the effort we both invest,” remarked Draymond Green. “There’s a healthy rivalry, so facing off against Joker is always an honor. I have immense respect for him.”
Nikola Jokic delivered a masterclass performance at the Chase Center on Sunday, amassing 32 points, 16 rebounds, and 16 assists. Jamal Murray’s 27 points helped counter Klay Thompson’s explosive scoring off the bench (23 points, including five 3-pointers), securing the victory.
Should the Warriors and Nuggets cross paths in the playoffs, Green might seize the opportunity to retaliate against Jokic’s dominance, relishing once more in their mutual admiration.
