Golden State Warriors star banned for striking LeBron James

The Golden State Warriors will be without Draymond Green when they try to close out the Cleveland Cavaliers in game five of the NBA Finals on Monday after he was handed a one-game suspension for punching LeBron James in the groin.

Upon the NBA's review of the in game-four incident, Green was assessed a Flagrant Foul 1 for striking James in reaction to the Cavaliers star stepping over him during the fourth quarter of the Warriors' win.

NBA rules mandate a one-game suspension for any player who accumulates four flagrant foul points over the course of the playoffs, with every additional Flagrant 1 resulting in a one-game suspension and a Flagrant Foul 2 earning a two-game penalty.

"The cumulative points system is designed to deter flagrant fouls in our game," NBA VP of basketball operations Kiki Vandeweghe said. "While Draymond Green's actions in game four do not merit a suspension as a stand-alone act, the number of flagrant points he has earned triggers a suspension for game five.

James was also assessed a technical foul for taunting Green.

Regarded as the Warriors' emotional leader on the court, Green is averaging 15 points, 9.7 rebounds and 5.9 assists per game in the postseason.

Despite Green's absence, the Warriors are favourites to win game five and clinch their second-consecutive NBA title.