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Draymond benefiting from newfound poise: 'I was doing more crying than playing'

Andrew D. Bernstein / National Basketball Association / Getty

Draymond Green is a new man.

The forward played a crucial role in the Golden State Warriors' Game 3 win over the Portland Trail Blazers on Saturday. Green's leadership has been on full display, and he admitted postgame that he's been focussing on managing his emotions for the betterment of his team.

"I think it definitely helps the energy of the guys. I still like to pick and choose my spots," Green said, according to Nick Friedell of ESPN. "Sometimes I may take a tech, but that's more mindful than just getting a tech. Sometimes I know like, 'All right, I need an energy burst, maybe I'll take one.' But sometimes I'm not mindful and I'll get a tech, and that will just kill the energy of our team.

"I've been really focused and locked in on that, and I realized I got to a point where I was doing more crying than playing. I'm sure it was disgusting to watch because I felt disgusting playing that way, and I just wanted to lock back in on the game."

Green has picked up four technicals in these playoffs, one shy of his postseason high set in 2016 and matched in 2018. Players are handed an immediate one-game suspension upon receiving their seventh. He finished with a career-high 16 techs during the regular season.

He says his immediate family has inspired him to improve his conduct toward referees.

"I understand that officials aren't perfect, and I still have conversations with them now when they miss a call, but it's completely different conversations," he said. "You know, my mom has been really big (in helping me). My fiancee has been really big (with) just talking to me about that and just telling me to stay locked in on the game.

"I also have some little ones at the house that's enjoying watching me play. I don't necessarily want them to see that. So just try to be more mindful of it."

Green recorded a triple-double of 20 points, 13 rebounds, and 12 assists to go with four steals Saturday as the Dubs moved to within one win of a fifth consecutive NBA Finals appearance. It was arguably the 29-year-old's best all-around showing this postseason, earning him plaudits from his teammates as well as head coach Steve Kerr, who likened him to a "wrecking ball" in the 110-99 win.

He's averaging 16 points, 11 rebounds, eight assists, two steals, and three blocks in the Western Conference finals.

Golden State will attempt to complete the sweep Monday in Portland.

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