The NBA rule book lays it out plain and simple: If you throw a punch, even if it doesn't land, you're looking at an automatic suspension. This was the case for Utah Jazz guard Kris Dunn, who threw a punch in a game against the Houston Rockets at forward Jabari Smith Jr. The league swiftly responded, handing Dunn a two-game suspension "for initiating an altercation and throwing a punch," while Smith got a one-game suspension "for fighting with Dunn." Dunn owned up to his actions, stating, "For me, I take responsibility for my actions and whatever the league decides for me, I have to respect that."
During a tense moment on January 20th, Dunn and Smith had to be pulled apart during a heated exchange. It seems that tension boiled over, leading to Dunn's punch and the subsequent suspensions. Despite the miss or possible pull of the punch, league rules are firm on the consequences. The altercation not only sidelines both players but also takes a hit on their paychecks.
Login