Physical play in the NBA Finals becomes not just expected but a focus. The series between the New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs is no different from past championship rounds, as each team tries to assert its will over the other.
While the referees attempt to let ticky-tack fouls and contact go, some actions do cross the invisible line. An NBA commentator, with an extensive background in playoff competition and winning championships, offered his take on one particular act.
Draymond Green Chides Knicks Players for Failing to Defend Jalen Brunson
This year’s finals have been marked by numerous incidents and tense moments. From hard fouls to trash talk, the two teams amped up the intensity. On Monday, Victor Wembanyama, the Spurs center made hard contact with Brunson, shoving him.
No foul was called, and the league decided not to change the no-call. Green, winner of four championships with the Golden State Warriors, chastised the Knicks for not rallying to their teammate. In this interview with Yahoo Sports host Kevin O’Connor, the forward does not hold back.
Draymond Green said if Wemby did to Steph what he did to Brunson in Game 3…he would’ve been thrown out.
“He pushed him down and none of the guys on the Knicks team did anything. Don’t not for one second think that didn’t matter.” https://t.co/SMwWfBSlK0 pic.twitter.com/dhcM1ETujS
— Kevin O’Connor (@KevinOConnor) June 10, 2026
“Draymond Green said if Wemby did to Steph what he did to Brunson in Game 3…he would’ve been thrown out. He pushed him down, and none of the guys on the Knicks team did anything. Don’t not for one second think that didn’t matter.”
In essence, Green believes that the Knicks failed Brunson. Brunson is the Knicks’ best player and closer, ending games with an array of shots and big moments. The 2016-17 NBA Defensive Player of the Year outlined what he would have done.
“I’m probably going to get thrown out right there. It’s probably going to cost us Game 3. You get right in there and make something happen,” said Green, drawing a clear line about his chosen course of action in that tense moment.”
However, while Green’s point may carry water with many, any clear retaliation would lead to immediate ejections and possible suspensions for the Knicks. Green mentioned Josh Hart by name. While not a star player, Hart can play a versatile style of basketball. For instance, he rebounds like a much taller player during the postseason.
Those rebounds either lead to possessions or prolong them. Additionally, the Knicks do not employ an enforcer. All of their rotation is needed to perform their specified role, from giving the starters a breather to scoring, rebounding, and defending.
Knicks backup guard Jose Alvarado expressed his desire to ensure that what happened to Brunson will not repeat itself. Granted, Alvarado is not an enforcer, but his thoughts echo Green’s sentiments. Whether his bold claim comes to fruition remains to be seen.
