Nikola Jokic will be available for Game 5 of Denver Nuggets’ Western Conference semi-final series against Phoenix Suns tonight in Denver.
Jokic reportedly has been fined US$25,000.00 but the NBA decided yesterday that they would not suspend the superstar centre for his involvement in a scuffle with the owner of Phoenix Suns, Mat Ishbia on Sunday. The incident resulted in a technical foul for Jokic.
There was speculation that Jokic could be suspended for the incident which occurred with less than 3 minutes to go in the second quarter in Phoenix Suns’ 129-124 win over Denver Nuggets to even the series at 2-2.
The play began when Jokic blocked a Deandre Ayton shot sending the ball heading out of bounds at the baseline.
The ball ended up in the arm of Ishbia, who cradled it under his arm as Jokic attempted to grab it back.
Ishbia did not immediately return the ball and it flipped a few rows back as Jokic tried to pull it from his arm.
As Jokic then reached for the ball he raised his elbow up to Ishbia’s chest and made contact.
Ishbia then fell down into his seat with his arms raised.
The referees huddled to discuss what transpired, and decided Jokic’s actions were worthy of a technical foul.
That decision, however, sparked significant debate as to whether Ishbia flopped or if Jokic used excessive force.
Kevin Durant ended up making the technical free throw to tie the score at 55.
Jokic defended his actions after the game in which he finished with a career-high 53 points on 20-of-30 shooting, along with 11 assists.
Jokic has been outstanding in this series, averaging 36.5 points, 14.0 rebounds and 9.5 assists in the four games.
