Veteran players on championship-contending teams are expected to lead by example, not only through their production but also through their maturity, composure, and on-court leadership. However, Draymond Green has struggled to meet those expectations, and his latest outburst against the Phoenix Suns was another example of his inability to keep his emotions in check.
The former DPOY got into a heated confrontation with Dillon Brooks , which ultimately resulted in his ejection. And while Green's intensity has often been an important part of his game, his repeated disciplinary issues are becoming increasingly difficult to overlook.
Moreover, Dray's unwillingness to change his ways has frustrated Kendrick Perkins to such an extent that on the latest episode of ESPN's First Take, the latter unhesitatingly questions when the Warriors forward was last discussed for his performance rather than his controversial, immature behavior.
"When was the last time we discuss Draymond and brought up his basketball and not fighting? At some point, he has to deliver on the floor. When you look at the start of the season, he has been nonexistent," Perkins said .
Having Jimmy Butler, Moses Moody and Kristaps Porzingis deal with injuries to begin the season was already a huge setback for the Warriors. To make matters worse, they endured a difficult start ot the 2026-27 season, losing each of their first three games.
However, after putting together four consecutive wins, Golden State entered a tight contest against the Phoenix Suns on Monday night.
Unfortunately, Green once again let his emotions get the better of him instead of providing the composure expected from a veteran defensive anchor.
With the Dubs trailing by seven points, Draymond committed a hard foul on Suns center Khaman Maluach, sending the 20-year-old crashing to the floor under the post. An upset Brooks immediately ran up to Green to exchange some words.
In response, the four-time All-Star grabbed Brooks by the neck of his jersey before both players began shoving each other. Naturally, as others separated the two, Green's unwarranted escalation guaranteed his career's 31st ejection, yet again at a time when his team desperately needed him.
Fortunately for the Warriors, Stephen Curry and Brandin Podzeimski combined for 39 points in the second half to help the team extend their winning streak to five games, with a 116-113 victory.
Nobody expected Dray to average 11-15 points per game or deliver a DPOY-caliber performance. However, his responsibilities extend well beyond scoring and individual defensive numbers.
Especially with several key players sidelined, the least he can do is remain available and help the Warriors' younger players through his experience and basketball IQ.
Moreover, seeing Green average a mere 3.2 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 0.8 steals over six appearances in the 2026-27 season has forced Perkins to crown him a sure-shot liability and a disruptive piece for the Warriors.
"He has done absolutely nothing for the Warriors, to me," Perkins continued. "He's been a liability more than an asset."
That said, if Green wants to continue earning respect, even from Warriors fans, it's high time he recognized his value and acted appropriately for his age.
Related: "We are very young" – Draymond Green challenges perception of Warriors as an aging team
This story was originally published by Basketball Network on Nov 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the Latest News section. Add Basketball Network as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
