In a dramatic turn of events during the playoff showdown, Draymond Green’s heated exchange with officials has escalated tensions on the court, prompting teammates Steph Curry and Jimmy Butler to step in and calm the tempestuous star. The incident unfolded as Green was assessed a technical foul for allegedly striking Minnesota’s Naz Reid in the face, a call that sent shockwaves through the Golden State Warriors’ bench.

Referee Tony Brothers immediately reviewed the play, which had the potential to be upgraded to a flagrant foul. Although many observers, including analysts on the broadcast, speculated that there was no intent behind Green’s actions, the NBA’s strict officiating standards left the Warriors’ power forward with little room for error. This incident marks Green’s fifth technical foul of the playoffs, and he now stands just two away from a one-game suspension—a dire scenario for a team fighting for their postseason lives.

As the game slipped away, with Golden State down by 16 points, Curry and Butler rushed to diffuse the situation. Curry, known for his cool demeanor, urged Green to rein in his emotions, understanding the stakes at play. With tensions running high, Coach Steve Kerr made a tactical decision to substitute Butler in for Green, a move aimed at preventing further escalation and keeping Green away from the officials who had already shown him a short leash.

The urgency of the moment could not be overstated: the Warriors need Green as their defensive anchor and offensive facilitator if they hope to turn the tide in this critical playoff series. As the clock ticks down, all eyes will be on how Green manages his emotions moving forward—and whether his teammates can rally around him to keep their championship dreams alive.