Draymond Green Doubts Grizzlies’ Rookie Zach Edey’s NBA Readiness After Heated Clash

Draymond Green’s latest on-court scuffle involves Memphis Grizzlies rookie center Zach Edey, extending their budding rivalry. In Saturday’s game at the Chase Center, the Golden State Warriors star delivered a hard foul on Edey in the fourth quarter, sparking tensions. Frustrated, Edey retaliated by shoving Green, marking the third altercation between the two players this season.

Earlier incidents included Green clutching Edey’s leg during a play and striking him in the face. After the game, Green criticized officials for what he deemed unfair flagrant foul calls, saying, “No, but it’s Draymond Green, that’s why it’s a flagrant foul… When did they become so above the law that you can’t say ‘Boom?’”

Despite pledging to keep technical fouls between 8 and 10 this season, Green’s confrontational style remains central to his game, often putting him in foul trouble. This particular incident adds another chapter to the ongoing rivalry between the Warriors and Grizzlies, fueled by their past playoff clashes.

Edey, averaging 10.9 points and 7.9 rebounds as a 7’4” rookie, has already faced significant challenges, with Green questioning his ability to succeed in the league. For Edey, these fiery encounters with the Warriors star serve as a tough initiation into the NBA.

Draymond Green was assessed a flagrant 1 after this play on Zach Edey. pic.twitter.com/CsC53oru09

— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) January 5, 2025