Draymond Green lets his teammates down

The NBA suspended Golden State’s emotional leader for Game 5 of the NBA Finals, putting the defending champ at a distinct disadvantage. What could have been a triumphant celebration on its home court will be much more difficult. “He brings a lot to the table: defensive versatility, rebounding, ballhandling and passing,” head coach Steve Kerr said, after hearing the news in the middle of Sunday’s practice. The one game Green sat out in the regular season was a loss, to a Denver Nuggets team that was 14-24 at the time. If more offense is needed, the Warriors could look to Shaun Livingston, Whichever way the Warriors go, it’s not the situation they wanted. How did we get to this unfortunate turn of events? Green and James got tangled in the closing minutes of Game 4, and the Warriors’ forward lashed out. Green is a highly charged individual who plays with huge heart and emotion. Draymond knew he was on double-secret probation with the NBA going into each and every game of these Finals. “I mean, it’s disappointing, but I’m not going to let it get us down,” guard Klay Thompson said. Stephen Curry echoed that sentiment, saying, It’s an unfortunate situation for our team. [...] you have to believe the players and the brain trust are shaking their heads behind the scenes. Risk versus reward, if it’s one game out of 100, you take that energy and emotion and get those other 99 games. [...] Green won’t be in the building, as the NBA has banned him from Oracle Arena.