On Tuesday night, the Memphis Grizzlies and Los Angeles Lakers faced off in Game 3 of their first-round playoff series. In the fourth quarter, Grizzlies forward Dillon Brooks was ejected for striking Lakers superstar LeBron James.
The incident occurred with 4:45 remaining in the fourth quarter. Brooks and James were both going for a loose ball, and Brooks appeared to take a swipe at James’ face. James then retaliated by pushing Brooks away. After a review, the referees determined that Brooks had committed a Flagrant 2 foul, resulting in his ejection from the game.
The incident has sparked debate among NBA fans. Some argue that Brooks was simply trying to make a play on the ball, and that James overreacted by pushing him away. Others argue that Brooks’ swipe was intentional, and that he deserved to be ejected.
Regardless of how one feels about the incident, it is clear that it had an impact on the game. Without Brooks on the court, the Grizzlies were unable to keep up with the Lakers’ offense, and they eventually lost the game by a score of 111-97.
It remains to be seen what kind of punishment Brooks will face for his actions. The NBA has a strict policy against physical contact between players, and it is likely that Brooks will be suspended for at least one game.
The incident between Brooks and James is yet another reminder of the intense physicality of the NBA playoffs. It is also a reminder that players must remain in control of their emotions during games, or risk facing serious consequences.