Draymond Green’s reputation as one of the NBA’s most fiery and emotional players continues to grow this postseason, as he has now accumulated five technical fouls. Known for his passionate defense, leadership, and intensity, Green’s emotional style of play has always walked a fine line between inspiration and chaos. In the 2025 playoffs, that line is thinner than ever, and both fans and analysts are wondering if his latest antics will ultimately help or hurt the Golden State Warriors.
Throughout his career, Green has been no stranger to technical fouls. His aggressive nature is part of what makes him so effective, but it has also been his Achilles’ heel in critical moments. Warriors fans haven’t forgotten the 2016 NBA Finals, where Green’s suspension for accumulating too many technicals arguably changed the course of the series. Now, nearly a decade later, some fear history could repeat itself.
This postseason, Green’s technicals haven’t been limited to a single type of infraction. He’s been whistled for demonstrative reactions to referees, excessive physicality with opponents, and verbal altercations that escalate beyond typical playoff intensity. It’s clear that Green’s emotions are running hot — perhaps hotter than usual — as he senses the urgency of what could be one of his final deep playoff runs with the Warriors’ current core.
Each technical foul brings Green closer to an automatic suspension, which occurs after a player reaches seven technical fouls in the playoffs. With at least a few more games guaranteed, and potentially several series if Golden State continues advancing, it’s a precarious position. Green’s presence on the court is critical for the Warriors; he anchors their defense, facilitates offense, and serves as the emotional backbone of the team. Losing him for even one game could have significant consequences.
Coach Steve Kerr has publicly backed Green, emphasizing that his intensity is part of what makes him special. Still, even Kerr has acknowledged the need for better control, reminding Green — and the media — that emotional discipline is as important as physical execution during the playoffs. Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson have also stood by Green, with Curry recently stating, “We need Draymond’s fire, but we need him out there too.”
For his part, Green seems aware of the stakes. In interviews, he has expressed a desire to maintain his edge while avoiding the type of mistakes that could cost his team. However, staying true to himself without crossing the line has always been a delicate balance for Green, and so far this postseason, it has been difficult to manage.
As the Warriors push deeper into the playoffs, all eyes will be on Green’s behavior. Can he harness his passion in a way that fuels his team without tipping into self-destruction? Or will his fifth technical foul be a warning sign of more trouble ahead? For better or worse, Draymond Green’s emotions have always been part of the Warriors’ story — and this postseason, that story is far from over.
