Though Washington Wizards guard Isaiah Thomas has always been known as one of the more exciting point guards in the entire NBA, it’s been his antics that have drawn headlines in recent weeks.
Just less than two weeks ago, Thomas was suspended for two games after he went into the stands to confront a heckling fan during a game against the Philadelphia 76ers. Now, Thomas finds himself back in some hot water, this time for shoving a referee. Thomas made contact with a referee within the first 90 seconds of Washington’s Jan. 3 matchup against the Portland Trail Blazers. The contact appeared to be incidental but Thomas was ejected regardless and has been fined $25,000 according to a release from the NBA.
Even though it didn’t seem as if the contact between Thomas and the ref was anything too serious, the league has a strict policy against players and officials making contact. With how testy the relationship has been at times between player and ref over the past couple seasons, it’s no surprise to see this fine levied down by the league office.
Thomas himself says he won’t appeal the fine, though he claims the contact was completely incidental.
More Isaiah Thomas: “The extension of my arm makes it look like I pushed him but any time somebody falls back, your arm is gonna extend. That was obvious what happened." pic.twitter.com/VCoor46CIN
— Fred Katz (@FredKatz) January 5, 2020
While his behavior has been what’s captured the public’s attention this season, Thomas has actually been a decent piece for Washington when on the court. In 26 games including 23 starts, Thomas has averaged 12.8 points and 4.3 assists per game, though it hasn’t translated to much team success.
Washington’s stellar bench has been the story of their season so far but Thomas hasn’t been a complete disappointment as he replaces veteran John Wall who’s still battling back from an Achilles injury. The Wizards will take the court next on Monday when the red hot 25-8 Boston Celtics come to town.
