While the Golden State Warriors are battling the Boston Celtics in the NBA Finals, Warriors star Draymond Green is currently engaged in a war of words off the court.
Green has been in a back-and-forth with Celtics legend Cedric Maxwell this week. Maxwell started the argument by stating that Green’s antics in the 2022 Finals series would not have been taken lightly by players in the 1980s.
Celtics legend Cedric Maxwell to Gary Payton after Game 2:
"That s— Draymond Green was doing? In the 80’s he would've got knocked the f— out!"
(via @CLNSMedia) pic.twitter.com/87gBdAwdE9
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) June 7, 2022
Green responded in a lengthy rant. He touched on how the game is played much differently today than it was before. He also seemingly pushed back against the notion that everyone in the NBA used to be tough as nails.
"If you played in this day and age you'd have to be more skilled than you were"
Draymond Green responds to Cedric Maxwell's comments on physicality of '80s & '90s basketball pic.twitter.com/XlTSrOcHWw
— Celtics on NBC Sports Boston (@NBCSCeltics) June 7, 2022
Maxwell recently responded. The 66-year-old pointed out how tough the league was during his career. He also stated that Green was not even alive yet to see him play.
“Draymond, ask your daddy who I was.” pic.twitter.com/7FtUaus8nj
— Phil Perry (@PhilAPerry) June 8, 2022
Maxwell played 11 seasons in the league, starting in the 1977-78 season. He helped the Celtics claim two titles during the 1980s. Even though those title teams featured stars like Larry Bird, Kevin McHale and others, Maxwell was able to win the 1981 NBA Finals MVP thanks to some clutch performances.
Green has yet to answer Maxwell’s latest statement. However, with his team about to play a crucial Game 3 on the road on Wednesday, Green is likely more focused on ensuring that the Warriors are prepared to play in a hostile environment.
