Photos: Draymond and Klay-less, Golden State Warriors lose home pre-season opener to Lakers 124-121

Jordan Poole, who again started in place of Klay Thompson, exploded in the third quarter, helping the Warriors overcome an eight-point deficit at the half, but it was not enough to defeat the Lakers.

The fourth-year guard showed off his crafty ball handling scored 18 of his team-high 25 points in the third quarter. That includes an end-of-the-quarter explosion, where he scored 10 straight points in the final 3 ½ minutes. Stephen Curry finished right behind with 24 points.

Poole, who didn’t play the fourth, was the star of the game for the Warriors and seemed unfazed by the controversy surrounding a practice altercation between him and Draymond Green last week.

Poole has remained the ultimate professional after getting violently punched in the face by Draymond Green during Wednesday’s practice. What fueled the practice altercation remains unclear. Green said the video didn’t show the whole story and refuted a report that money was the root of his frustrations.

Green is taking an indefinite leave from the team. It’s unclear where Poole and Green stand, but the grizzled veteran has made it clear he would like to make amends. How long that might take is to be determined.

The Warriors have two more preseason games before beginning their season with a championship ring and banner ceremony Oct. 18 against the Lakers. There’s no guarantee Green will be at the season opener.

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