Adam Silver wasn't going to end Draymond Green's career by punching him in the face.
Green, who returned from a 12-game NBA indefinite suspension on Saturday, said on Monday's episode of “The Draymond Green Show” that he was persuaded not to retire by the NBA commissioner.
“I told him, 'Adam, this is too much for me.' … This is too much. It's all becoming too much for me, and I'm going to retire.” the Warriors star said, as transcribed by ESPN.. “And Adam said, 'You're making a very hasty decision, and I'm not going to let you do that.'
“We had long, great conversations that were very helpful. I'm so grateful to be able to play in a league with commissioners like Adam who are more willing to help you than hurt you than punish you.” Please help him. He cares more about his players.”
Green is currently working his way back from a suspension he received on Dec. 12 for punching Suns center Jusuf Nurkic in the face.
If he misses Wednesday's home game against New Orleans, he will miss his 14th consecutive game. He did not play in Sunday's game against the Raptors following his return.
This is Green's second suspension this season, having previously served a five-game suspension for putting Minnesota center Rudy Gobert in a headlock from behind.
Green's rehabilitation process included counseling.
“During his suspension, which began on December 14th and resulted in him missing 12 games, Green completed measures demonstrating his commitment to bring his conduct into compliance with the standards expected of NBA players,” the NBA said in a statement. ” he said.
“He has met with a counselor and has had multiple joint meetings with representatives from the NBA, Warriors, and National Basketball Players Association, both of which are expected to continue throughout the season.”
ESPN reported Green will need about a week to be ready to return, with the Warriors playing against the Bulls (January 12), Bucks (January 13) and Grizzlies (January 15). He will return at some point in the future. ) in a 4-day window.
