Heading into the NBA playoffs, one of the major topics was the potential impact of Luka Doncic this postseason.
Well, it seems his on-court impact is still nonexistent as he recovers from a Grade 2 hamstring injury. However, Doncic is finding alternative ways to make contributions. At least, financially.
Reports indicate that Doncic has decided to cover the fine imposed by the NBA on teammate Adu Tierro after the rookie got ejected during the Game 4 defeat. Just over a minute remained when Tierro and Rockets player Aaron Holiday clashed following a 3-point shot by Dalton Knecht. Their scuffle escalated after a physical confrontation on the court.
This isn’t the typical scenario to draw criticism, particularly during the playoffs. Still, referee James Williams did not appear to see it that way. After Lakers center Deandre Ayton was ejected earlier in the game—leading to questions from both teams—Williams swiftly removed Tierro and Holiday from the game.
The decision angered both Lakers head coach JJ Redick and star player LeBron James. Post-game, Redick mentioned the lack of a satisfactory explanation for Tierro’s ejection. “I’m sure James [Williams] will have something to say,” he remarked.
LeBron expressed his outrage, stating, “I’m more upset that they got rid of Adu. I thought it was unfair; it didn’t make sense. It was his first ejection, and I don’t think it was justified—it was ridiculous.”
Looking ahead, Game 5 of the series between the Rockets and Lakers is set to air on Wednesday at 7 PM PT on ESPN.
