
The Golden State Warriors earned a convincing win this past Monday, December 22, against the Orlando Magic, cruising to a 120-97 victory. However, the dominant performance by the Bay Area team was not the main storyline of the night. Instead, another internal situation once again set off alarm bells and ultimately captured the headlines, overshadowing what should have been a comfortable and celebratory result.
When a team wins, it is easy to imagine smiling faces and a relaxed atmosphere taking center stage. Yet that is not always the case. At times, friction between teammates or staff members can emerge and spill over in ways that defy logic, even in the midst of a lopsided win that appears to leave little room for tension or disagreement.
Caitlin Clark quietly proves she’s back in form
Emotions tend to run high whenever a game is being played. In the NBA, a league defined by speed, precision, and constant bursts of intensity, the combination of physical exertion and competitive pressure can cause tempers to flare. The heat of the action on the court often clouds judgment, affecting both players and coaches in the moment.
That was precisely what happened between Warriors head coach Steve Kerr, an experienced and highly decorated leader, and veteran forward Draymond Green. Early in the third quarter, tensions escalated and led to a heated exchange between the two. What initially appeared capable of spiraling further instead concluded in a notably mature manner on the part of the big man.
When it seemed the situation might intensify, Green chose to take control. Aware of the circumstances unfolding in full view of everyone and still visibly emotional, he opted to walk toward the locker room to cool off and remove himself from the immediate conflict.
Once emotions had settled and calm was restored, Draymond returned to the bench to support his teammates, although he did not see further action on the floor. Kerr later confirmed that the player would not be reinserted into the game under those circumstances.
The victory on Monday, December 22, allowed the Warriors to balance their record for the 2025 season at 15-15, reaching the .500 mark. It also marked their second consecutive win, offering a measure of stability in what has otherwise been an uneven campaign.
Stephen Curry emerged as the Warriors’ leading man
As has become customary since his return from the injury that sidelined him for several games, Stephen Curry once again guided his team against Orlando. He finished the night with 26 points on 10-of-23 shooting, three rebounds, six assists, two steals and four triples in 31 minutes of action.
Following the uncomfortable episode involving his teammate and coach, Curry addressed the media to share his perspective.
Just having a good conversation, it’s kind of for them to talk about, not me.
He said, while expanding on the complicated situation surrounding the team.
I don’t think so, I don’t know, I know he came up here and talked about it,” Curry said. “I haven’t had a chance to talk to him, so I’m pretty sure we know how to be professional about it.
Looking ahead to the Warriors’ next game, scheduled in two days against the Dallas Mavericks, disciplinary action against Draymond Green appears likely. Attention will remain focused on any further developments involving the player and the coach.
This news was originally published on this post .
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