Draymond Green has been a different player of late in the playoffs.
The Warriors forward has become known for his demonstrative attitude toward officials, often leading the NBA in technical fouls.
But the three-time NBA All-Star has been focused and in control during the Warriors' Western Conference finals battle with the Portland Trail Blazers. While he credits that to wanting to set a good example for his son, Draymond Jr., he also mentioned the impact the public altercation he had with Kevin Durant earlier this season had on him.
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On Sunday, Green told reporters what Durant said to him after the fact that never left his mind.
“It’s funny because when the stuff happened with Kevin earlier this year,” Green said, “he said, like, ‘Everybody is giving you this pass like, oh, that’s just Draymond. He’s emotional.’
“But (Durant) said to me then, like, ‘You’re not emotional. I’ve seen you lock in and not say a word to the referees. I’m not giving you that pass.’ That’s kind of stuck with me.”
It turns out the incident wasn't all bad.
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With Durant and DeMarcus Cousins out with injuries, Green has propelled the Warriors to a three-games-to-zero series lead against the Blazers in the best-of-seven series.
Green did it all in Golden State's Game 3 win. He pushed the pace from the opening tip and his energy kept the Warriors afloat and allowed them the opportunity to come back and grab a 110-99 win.
Thanks, KD.