Celtics players mock Green for calling Olynyk a ´dirty player´

Isaiah Thomas leapt to the defence of Kelly Olynyk as he hit out at Draymond Green over criticism of his Boston Celtics team-mate.

Golden State Warriors star Green called Olynyk a “dirty player” as the Boston centre’s physical approach comes under the microscope in the NBA Eastern Conference second-round playoffs.

Olynyk is in the spotlight after flooring Washington’s Kelly Oubre on an illegal screen in game three, having been criticised for his role in Kevin Love’s shoulder dislocation during the 2015 playoffs.

Cleveland Cavaliers big man Love’s shoulder separated as the two players chased a rebound, with Olynyk holding the former’s arm.

“I don’t know how he can call anybody dirty,” Thomas told reporters on Tuesday with the Conference semi-finals locked at 2-2 against the Wizards.

“It is what it is, everybody has comments or something to say.

“It’s a joke that [Green] said that. The playoffs, everything somebody says is blown out of proportion. Everything somebody does is blown out of proportion as well. We can’t worry about what others are saying or doing.”

Thomas then jokingly said, “Kelly is one of the dirtiest players I know,” before turning serious and saying he is a clean player.

Avery Bradley also defended his team-mate by taking a shot at Green.

“Everyone has their own opinion, but I don’t agree [with] it,” he said. “I think Kelly is far from a dirty guy. I’m pretty sure some guys might have their opinion on Draymond, some of the plays that he’s made in the past. But I don’t care.”

As for the man himself, Olynyk predictably says he is not a dirty player.

“I mean, I know who I am. My team-mates know who I am,” said Olynyk. “Everybody’s entitled to their own opinion but right now we’ve got a big game tomorrow against a good team. That’s what we’re focused on.”