It wasn’t meant to be for the Golden State Warriors. The Phoenix Suns absolutely smashed them to end their season. It was clearly a frustrating night for the Bay. Stephen Curry’s knee injury seemed to flare up, and shots just didn’t fall. Porzingis was limited to just 15 minutes. Everything that was concerning happened. That included a chippy aftermath to the loss, provoked by Draymond Green.

See, the Warriors’ defensive ace wasn’t just going to go out quietly. After intentionally fouling Devin Booker and fouling out, Green started to get alive on the sidelines. He was talking all kinds of trash. Book took exception and nearly confronted the Warriors forward. That was strike one and a technical foul for both

A few seconds later, Scott Foster didn’t see the tensions calming down. Just as the ball was inbounded to Booker, he blew his whistle. The infamous hand wave happened, and they were both gone. The Suns’ loyal cornerstone was upset. Devin Booker couldn’t be on the floor to celebrate their playoff berth. But Draymond Green looked like he was the happiest person on the planet.

 

On his way out, the four-time NBA champion mocked Foster for the ejection. Moreover, he also got under the Phoenix Suns fans. While walking away. Green gestured for the Sums fans to be louder as they celebrated the Warriors’ forward’s ejection. Draymond Green never dropped his smile. However, that was it for the tense bit in this clash.

The Suns were just amazing in executing their game plan and emerging victorious over a much far rich in experience.

Injuries keep the Warriors out of the playoffs

Furthermore, Kristaps Porzingis’ right ankle also bothered him. The Latvian could only play 15 minutes, sitting out the pivotal fourth quarter where the Warriors actually hinted at a fightback. But those two key elements weren’t fully in the game. That left the team having to rely on their young players.

Brandin Podziemski had the most turnovers of any Warriors player. However, Kerr used him relentlessly. He was carrying the ball up the floor, making decisions, and played almost 40 minutes. Still, he was the highlight, with 23 points and 10 rebounds on great efficiency. The Warriors just didn’t have their mojo. On the other hand, Phoenix found theirs.

For Stephen Curry and Co., this was always going to be a difficult season. They lost Jimmy Butler and Moses Moody, two stars who could have provided them with the gusto needed to survive this season. Moreover, with Curry out for two months, the longer path took a lot out of them. It’s all about recalibrating now.

The Warriors still have an amazing assembly of players when healthy. Staying on the floor will be the goal next season. As for this year, they learned that the team still has the gear to compete. They’ll try again next season, hoping to have a better campaign.

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