Slapped in face! Tensions flare as ‘Green vs Green’ sparks drama in Warriors-Rockets showdown

In a heated Game 2 clash of the NBA’s Western Conference playoffs, tempers flared between Houston Rockets star Jalen Green and Golden State Warriors veteran Draymond Green, adding drama to an already intense matchup.

The confrontation occurred during the fourth quarter of the Rockets’ 109-94 victory over the Warriors on Wednesday night. As the two Greens became entangled mid-play, Jalen retaliated with a swinging arm that struck Draymond in the face, prompting officials to assess a Flagrant 1 foul. Draymond, no stranger to on-court controversy, played his familiar role as agitator, but it was Jalen’s outburst that drew attention and raised eyebrows.

Jalen’s well-wishers are expecting the basketballer to remain calm, as he is pivotal to his team’s campaign.

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Despite the scuffle, it was a night to remember for Jalen Green. The 22-year-old guard delivered a dazzling 38-point performance, including eight three-pointers, to help the Rockets level the series at one game apiece. His offensive brilliance was a stark turnaround from a lacklustre Game 1 showing and proved crucial in exploiting a short-handed Warriors side reeling from injuries to Jimmy Butler and Brandin Podziemski.

The physicality didn’t stop there. Draymond Green picked up a technical foul for remonstrating with officials, while Tari Eason of the Rockets received one for unsportsmanlike conduct after hurling a towel. The chippy affair underlined the rising stakes of the series, with both teams refusing to back down.

With Game 3 set to take place in Golden State on Saturday night, all eyes will be on the two Greens and whether their confrontation was an isolated incident or a preview of further fireworks to come. The playoff battle may be tied, but the emotional edge lies firmly with Houston-for now. (With inputs from Agencies)