Video: Draymond Green pokes Rockets’ James Harden in the eye once again

After swiping Rockets guard James Harden in both eyes in Game 2, Draymond Green appeared to poke Harden in the eye again in Game 3.

In Game 2, James Harden got poked in both of his eyes by Draymond Green. It was accidental, but the injury cost The Beard an entire quarter of play. Green’s contact with Harden also caused a contusion in both eyes and a laceration on Harden’s left eye lid.

For the remainder of the game, Harden was obviously in some sort of pain, and he often shielded himself from the bright, flashing lights in Oracle Arena. After Game 2, Harden told reporters that he could barely see, but he left no doubt that he would be on the floor in Game 3.

Over the long three game break between Game 2 and Game 3, Harden’s vision cleared, but his eyes were still bloodshot red, especially his left eye.

https://twitter.com/SLAMonline/status/1124832962095321089

Harden’s eye looked rough, but he was good to go nonetheless. About five minutes into the game, Draymond Green appeared to poke Harden in the eye once again, this time in his right eye.

https://twitter.com/ComplexSports/status/1124843195140014080

After the play, Harden was visibly frustrated with Green, and the two exchanged words. Green could be seen on television telling Harden, “that’s basketball.” Yes, accidents happen in any physical sport, but we’ve seen too many dirty plays and eye poking from Green over the years, as Basketball Forever was quick to point out.

Draymond Green’s taken out a lot of eyes this year… pic.twitter.com/2cNRg08nFs

— Basketball Forever (@Bballforeverfb) May 1, 2019

Fortunately, Green’s antics didn’t stop Harden and the Rockets in Game 3 on Saturday night. The Rockets won the game 126-121 in overtime, led by James Harden’s 41 points. Eric Gordon also added 30 points on 7 made 3-pointers.

The Rockets now have life after winning Game 3 at home. However, Game 4 is also a must-win game, as the Rockets can’t afford to travel back to Oracle Arena for Game 5 down 3-1. Houston will need another big performance from James Harden on Monday.