MINNEAPOLIS -- The Golden State Warriors faced a challenging Game 2 in the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves, suffering a 117-93 defeat that marked their worst loss of the postseason. The game was not only a setback on the scoreboard but also highlighted ongoing tensions surrounding star player Draymond Green, who expressed frustration over what he perceives as an "agenda" to portray him negatively.
During the second quarter, with 8:46 remaining, Green was fouled by Timberwolves center Naz Reid while holding the ball. In an attempt to draw a shooting foul, Green flailed his left arm, inadvertently hitting Reid in the head. This action led to a review and a subsequent dead-ball technical foul being assessed against Green. The incident sparked a heated exchange between Green and the officiating crew, culminating in his ejection from the game.
After the game, Green addressed reporters at his locker, stating, "Looked like the angry Black man. I'm not an angry Black man. I am a very successful, educated Black man with a great family, and I am great at basketball and great at what I do. The agenda to try to keep making me look like an angry Black man is crazy. I'm sick of it. It's ridiculous." His comments reflect a deeper concern about how he is perceived both on and off the court.
Adding to the tumultuous atmosphere, footage emerged of a fan directing a racial slur at Green while he was on a stationary bike in the tunnel near the Warriors' bench during the fourth quarter. The Timberwolves organization confirmed that the fan was ejected for violating the NBA Fan Code of Conduct. A second fan was also identified for making racially charged comments towards Green but left the arena before security could intervene. The Timberwolves released a statement emphasizing their commitment to fostering a respectful environment, stating, "Racist, hateful, or threatening behavior has no place at our games or in our community and will not be tolerated under any circumstances."
As of now, Green is on the verge of receiving an automatic one-game suspension due to accumulating five technical fouls in the Warriors' first nine playoff games. According to NBA rules, a player who receives seven technical fouls during the postseason is automatically suspended for one game, with an additional suspension for every two technicals assessed thereafter. Warriors coach Steve Kerr acknowledged the need for Green to maintain his composure, especially with Stephen Curry sidelined due to a strained left hamstring.
In light of Curry's absence, the Warriors are relying heavily on Green's leadership. Teammate Jimmy Butler expressed confidence in Green's ability to stay poised, stating, "No, I think he knows. We all know. I thought he got fouled and was maybe trying to sell the call. Someone got hit, but it's crazy. Every time he does something, it's always a review and always ends up being something of that nature." Butler emphasized the importance of Green's presence on the court, particularly in the upcoming games.
In the previous round against the Houston Rockets, Green showcased his ability to lead effectively, contributing significantly to the team's success. In Game 7, he recorded 16 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists, and 2 blocks, helping the Warriors secure a 103-89 victory. Green had vowed to his teammates that he would maintain his composure and poise moving forward, a promise he upheld in the preceding games against the Rockets and Timberwolves.
However, the incident in Game 2 raises questions about his ability to control his emotions under pressure. Kerr noted that Green's competitive nature sometimes leads him to cross the line, saying, "It's part of Draymond. It's the same thing that makes him such a competitor and a winner, puts him over the top sometimes, and we know that and it's our job to try to help him stay poised, stay composed. But the competition is so meaningful to him that occasionally he goes over the line."
The Warriors are set to host the Timberwolves in Game 3 at Chase Center on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 8:30 p.m. ET, with the series tied at 1-1. As they prepare for this crucial matchup, all eyes will be on Green, who must navigate the challenges of officiating while leading his team in Curry's absence. The stakes are high, and the Warriors need Green to channel his intensity into productive performance rather than frustration.
With the series still in its early stages, the Warriors have an opportunity to regroup and refocus. Green's ability to lead effectively while managing his emotions will be key to the Warriors' success as they strive to advance further in the playoffs. The upcoming game will not only test their skills but also their resilience in the face of adversity, both on the court and off.
