Luka Doncic’s 16th technical foul overturned by the NBA

Doncic’s Technical Foul Rescinded

ORLANDO, Fla. — After the Lakers secured a victory over the Magic on Saturday night, there were some worries about star guard Luka Doncic. He had just received his 16th technical foul, which might have sidelined him for the upcoming game.

However, an announcement from the league on Sunday alleviated those concerns.

The NBA decided to rescind the technical fouls against Doncic and Magic center Goga Bitadze, which occurred during a heated exchange late in the third quarter following Doncic’s free throws.

With the technical foul against Doncic revoked, his total for the season goes back to 15, allowing him to participate in Monday’s away game against the Pistons at Little Caesars Arena.

According to league rules, if a player hits 16 technical fouls in a season, he faces a one-game suspension.

Interestingly, Doncic and Bitadze shared differing accounts of what transpired that led to the technicals. Doncic claimed that during the free throws, Bitadze made an inappropriate remark in Serbian regarding his family. “At some point, I can’t just let that slide,” Doncic explained. He acknowledged that his teammates are supportive, saying he hopes to do better.

Bitadze, on the other hand, described his reaction as a response to what he interpreted as a provocative comment from Doncic. He stated that he didn’t mean any disrespect towards Doncic’s family but felt compelled to react during the heated moment.

The officiating crew, led by Mark Davis, noted that both players were issued technical fouls for “continuing to abuse each other.” Davis mentioned that they were warned beforehand to cease their comments but failed to comply.

This recent ruling adds to the close calls Doncic has faced regarding technical fouls, having narrowly escaped suspension earlier this season.

Throughout his career from 2020 to 2023, Doncic has also dealt with a similar situation, finishing past seasons with a notable number of technical fouls.

While Doncic is now clear to play against the Pistons, there’s uncertainty surrounding the availability of starting guard Marcus Smart due to ankle soreness, along with Rui Hachimura and Maxi Kleber, who are dealing with injuries as well.