Draymond Green returns amidst boos as Warriors fall to Grizzlies

Draymond Green faced a chorus of boos upon his return from a 16-game suspension during the Golden State Warriors’ 116-107 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies. The 33-year-old forward, banned indefinitely for striking an opponent in December, recorded seven points, seven rebounds, and four assists in his 24-minute appearance.

Green’s suspension was lifted earlier this month after he demonstrated a commitment to meeting conduct standards, according to the NBA. Despite Green’s individual efforts, the Warriors struggled as a team, prompting coach Steve Kerr to express his satisfaction with Green’s return to the lineup.

In another game, Joel Embiid made a triumphant return from a three-game injury hiatus, scoring 41 points and securing 10 rebounds for the Philadelphia 76ers in their 124-115 victory over the Houston Rockets. Embiid has now scored 30 or more points in 17 consecutive games, achieving seven 40-point performances this season.

The 76ers, ranked third in the Eastern Conference, maintained their strong position, while the Boston Celtics, leaders in the East, secured a 105-96 win against the Toronto Raptors. Kyrie Irving’s 42 points and Tim Hardaway Jr.’s 41-point contribution, featuring nine three-pointers, fueled the Dallas Mavericks to a 125-120 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans.

Trae Young reached a career milestone by scoring his 10,000th point as the Atlanta Hawks defeated the San Antonio Spurs 109-99. The Orlando Magic narrowly beat the New York Knicks 98-94, while the Miami Heat clinched a 96-95 overtime victory against the Brooklyn Nets.