For the first time this season, Draymond Green was ejected.
Green, the intense power forward, picked up two technical fouls against the Cavaliers in the Chase Center. The second — with 6:23 left in the third quarter — came when he shoved guard Donovan Mitchell in the back behind the play.
In retaliation for the shove, Mitchell body checked Green. The play was reviewed for a flagrant foul on Mitchell, but was eventually ruled a common foul and a retroactive technical on Green. Green had picked up his first technical earlier in the game for animatedly arguing a call with officials.
Including playoffs, this was the 18th time Green has been ejected in his career. He led the NBA with 23 technical fouls last year and now has three this season.
After the replay review that tossed Green from the game, he screamed at the crowd and waved his arms to ignite the friendly fans.
Mitchell flashed a peace sign as Green finally left the court.
Playing particularly inspired ball due to his earlier technical, Green made a big impact before getting tossed. In 18 minutes, the veteran recorded eight points, five rebounds and four assists.