The Golden State Warriors might face another Draymond Green controversy after ESPN’s Kendrick Perkins suggested the forward should face suspension for his latest on-court incident. Green’s foul on Memphis Grizzlies rookie Zach Edey, initially ruled a “take” foul, was later upgraded by the NBA to a Flagrant 1.
During Tuesday’s episode of First Take, Perkins argued the play warranted harsher consequences. “I actually think Draymond should be suspended for an extended period of time,” Perkins said. “He pulled on the opponent’s Achilles while the opponent was going in the opposite direction. We’re talking about Zach Edey, who’s [7-foot-4] and probably 300 pounds. This could have been a season-ending injury.”
Perkins acknowledged the divide among fans and analysts when it comes to Green. “Some people are saying ‘Hey, this was a dirty play, he needs to be penalized,’ while others argue ‘Let’s not make it seem like we’re picking on Draymond.’ But if you ask me, there’s no place in our game for those types of actions,” Perkins added.
The foul occurred during the Warriors’ 123-118 win over Memphis on Friday and gained attention after Edey hit the floor with his foot caught between Green’s arm. Grizzlies coach Taylor Jenkins criticized the play, calling it “not a basketball move,” while Edey echoed that sentiment in postgame comments.
Green responded to Jenkins’ criticism on social media, stirring further debate. Warriors coach Steve Kerr, however, agreed with the league’s decision to upgrade the foul to a Flagrant 1. “I agree with it; he grabbed him,” Kerr said Sunday. “It’s not a basketball play. It was more than a ‘take’ foul.”
Despite the controversy, Green is unlikely to face additional punishment at this stage. However, Perkins’ call for a suspension highlights the lingering scrutiny over Green’s aggressive playstyle. The Warriors struggled during Green’s two suspensions last season, and another absence could disrupt the team’s strong 10-3 start to the 2024-25 season.
While Green’s actions have reignited debates about physicality in the NBA, the incident serves as another reminder of the fine line between competitive play and unsportsmanlike conduct.