WATCH: Frustrated Draymond Green tries to RILE UP Kings’ Trey Lyles by clapping in his face

Warriors defender Draymond Green provokes Kings guard out of frustration

WATCH: Frustrated Draymond Green tries to RILE UP Kings’ Trey Lyles by clapping in his face

Draymond Green (Via Getty Images)

The 2022-23 NBA Playoffs have kicked off to a great start. Game 1 of the first round between the Sacramento Kings and the Golden State Warriors was one the most awaited matchups. The eyes are on the defending champions taking on one of the most impressive teams in the NBA this season. The Kings played hosts to the Warriors in what proved to be a nail-biting game. Stephen Curry and Co. haven’t had the best defensive season on the road this year. There was no doubt that playing in Sacramento, the premium Warriors defender, Draymond Green would play a pivotal role in the Warriors’ chances.

Green is one of the most passionate players in the game, not one who’s shy to be aggressive and provocate their opponent. The Warriors forward boiled up the temperature of the series-opener today against Kings forward Trey Lyles. In a close-neck-to-neck situation, the Warriors were looking at every opportunity to score. Klay Thompson saw his teammate standing free inside in the paint and passed the ball for an easy bucket. However, Lyles came up to put a tough contest on Green’s advances and ended up fouling him. The Warriors forward aggressively clapped his hands in front of Lyles’ face.

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Provocation is often used as a tactic by many players during the game. It is a psychological strategy to rile up a player who would then try to play aggressively. The most popular form of such provocation is trash-talking. However, sometimes in the heat of the moment, many players also resort to physical actions and gestures to taunt their opponents.

Whether or not Draymond Green‘s provocation worked in favor of the Warriors could be argued. Trey Lyles ended up scoring 16 points with six rebounds coming off the bench whereas Green put up four points, nine rebounds, and eleven assists. The game went right down to the wire with three needed for Golden State to tie the game. However, the Warriors star Steph Curry missed a clutch three-pointer and the Kings emerged victorious. The score was 123-126 at the end of the regulation.

Related: Draymond Green opens door for rumored team-up with LeBron James with HUGE ADMISSION about future with Warriors

How do the Golden State Warriors regroup after Game 1?

Stephen Curry disappointed after a loss (Image via Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports)
Stephen Curry disappointed after a loss (Image via Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports)

One of the Warriors’ biggest weaknesses this season has been their record on the road. Golden State Warriors has looked out of touch defensively and that is exactly what teams have planned to exploit. Moreover, the difference between home and away crowds plays a vital role in the spirit of the players. Going into game 2, which is also an away game for the San Francisco-based franchise, the Warriors will look to tighten up loose screws in their defensive game.

One of the positives for Golden State, however, is the return of Andrew Wiggins. Wiggins was one of the most crucial players in their championship season last year. He certainly adds a lot more depth to the lineup and is an excellent two-way player. While he might still take some time to get back into the groove after missing games, his offensive prowess and rock-hard defense can only enhance the Warriors.

The Kings, on the other hand, will aim to keep the momentum going. As an offensively explosive team this season and with the Warriors struggling in the opposite discipline, they will try to make the most of their chances. Under the guidance of head coach Mike Brown, the Kings not only qualified but also registered their first playoff win in over 16 years. Needless to say, this series already looks promising mixed with banter.

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