You can’t understate how important a win against the Clippers would be for the Warriors right now. They need a win to lock-in a playoffs spot, and were looking forward to their veterans to get the job done for them. But just as the game started building some momentum, Draymond Green was seen walking off the court into the locker room. Anthony Slater of the Athletic reported a neck issue, but details of the topic are yet to be revealed.

Green appeared to injure his neck after diving for a loose ball that went out of bounds, and was replaced by Kevin Looney at 6:22 in the first quarter. And right after self-certifying as Defensive Player of the Year. Talk about being caught in the worst timing! But hey, worry not, there’s news breaking that Green is now back on the court ready to take on the Lob City for the rest of the game.

Well, the good thing is that others will be getting a look in due to this. He might see a fractional reduce in game time to avoid something major to that neck. Gary Payton II had entered the court in place, and Jonathan Kuminga got his first quarter rotation slot. Green’s played a fair few minutes already, so the injury might not be as bad as it seems. The Warriors are 2 points down at the end of the first half, with Jimmy Butler and Stephen Curry running the show for them.

Meanwhile, the trio of Ivica Zubac, James Harden and Kawhi Leonard are stepping up for the Clippers in what’s been a back and forth first half. They need to win to secure playoffs. And the way the current Wild West is ongoing, they’ll have to throw the kitchen sink to do that.

Timberwolves dub could seal Warriors play-ins fate

The Wolves just beat a struggling Jazz. But the Warriors‘ superior seeding means that a win is enough. They don’t call it the Wild West for no reason. A Golden State win will confirm a blockbuster showdown with the Lakers in the first round. Any NBA fan would be hoping for it. But Green’s absence in the Clippers game wouldn’t look too promising for the Dub Nation. I mean, he thinks he should be crowned the DPOTY. So there’s bound to be some struggle without him on the court. But there shouldn’t be if you’re aiming for a championship.

A loss tonight could be vital for them. The play-ins picture shows that they have to face the Grizzlies, and win against them to face a Rockets team in red-hot form. Luckily, the 4 times GSW met Memphis, they beat them on 3 occasions. As for the Rockets, the Warriors did lose to them the last time, but are 3-2 in their 5 meetings this season. What happens next is yet to be seen.

Draymond Green’s swift return showcased his importance to the side. As the dramatic clash sent the experienced forward briefly off the floor, with a visible hand to his head, the prospect of a long-term absence loomed ominously. But his return sparked a triumphant war cry for the Warriors that brought on the belief of a Dub for the Nation.