Draymond Green of the Golden State Warriors was first irritated by Kevin Durant’s comments about him when he was punished for hitting Phoenix Suns center Jusuf Nurkic last month.
Green’s annoyance lessened, however, when he stated on his podcast on Monday that he saw the comments “through the right mindset, through the right lens” and opted not to take offense.
Durant, for his part, maintained he had no “ill will” against Green, his former Warriors colleague.
“I’m relieved he’s returned. I’m glad he’s gotten over it. “Draymond is an incredible teammate,” Durant remarked following the Suns’ loss to the Los Angeles Clippers. “He has his moments when he loses his cool, but everyone does.” I’m sure they’re all relieved to see him.”
“I know some people see me as this malicious snake, passive aggressive,” Durant continued. I understand how people feel about me at times. When I say (expletive), I don’t mean any harm to anyone. If he felt that way, I don’t wish to offend him or his family. I’m just relieved to have him back on the floor.”
Green returned to the court on Saturday after serving a 12-game suspension for striking Nurkic. The incident occurred just over a month after he was suspended for putting Rudy Gobert of Minnesota in a headlock.
Green stated on his podcast that he recognized being furious at Durant and others who advised he seek therapy was counterproductive.