Hawks Fined Over Trae Young
The NBA has fined the Atlanta Hawks $100,000 after determining that guard Trae Young could have participated in a game against the Boston Celtics on November 12. The Hawks had listed Young as out due to tendinitis in his right Achilles, but the league's findings suggest otherwise.
Violation of Player Participation Policy
The league's investigation revealed that the Hawks did not adhere to the player participation policy, which requires star players to be available for all national television and NBA In-Season Tournament games unless a valid reason for their absence is provided. Young, who was an All-Star last season, falls under this category.
Investigation Findings
An independent physician reviewed the circumstances surrounding Young's absence and concluded that he was fit to play, contradicting the Hawks' injury report. The NBA emphasized that the policy is designed to promote player participation during the regular season, which the Hawks' actions undermined.
Implications for the Hawks
This incident represents the sole game that Young has missed this season. The decision to hold him out has raised questions about the Hawks' compliance with league regulations and the necessity for transparency regarding player health.
Other League Fines
In a different matter, Sacramento Kings head coach Mike Brown was fined $35,000 for confronting a game official aggressively during a recent match against the Brooklyn Nets, which the Kings lost.
