Dallas Mavericks star Kristaps Porzingis has been slapped with a hefty $50,000 fine after violating the league's protocol on attending social events and gatherings.
According to Shams Charania of The Athletic, Porzingis went clubbing on Sunday, which violates the league rules that prevent players from going into bar, club, lounge and other establishments. As Charania noted, this is “regardless of vaccination status” of the player.
It is unknown if the Mavs big man will miss time, but it doesn't seem to be the case since only the fine was announced.
Dallas Mavericks’ Kristaps Porzingis has been fined $50,000 for violating the rule prohibiting players from going into bar, club, lounge or similar establishment regardless of vaccination status, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. Porzingis attended a club on Sunday.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) May 25, 2021
However, this is certainly unnecessary distraction for the Mavs, who really need to focus on the task at hand. They are facing the Los Angeles Clippers in the first round of the playoffs, and while they have taken a 1-0 lead, the series is far from over.
Moreover, they will need Kristaps Porzingis to be at his absolute best in order to defeat the Clippers. Luka Doncic came up big for the Mavs in Game 1, but with the defense expected to focus on him in Game 2, Dallas needs KP and the rest of the team to step up.
Distractions for the Mavs aside though, this latest development raised questions about the league's protocols. Recently, Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James was spotted in a high profile event, socializing with the likes of Drake and Michael B. Jordan without a mask. However, the NBA did not fine or put him in quarantine, explaining that players are “permitted to engage in outside activities.”
With that said, this decision by the NBA is expected to spark more debate on what fans could deem as unfair treatment. Although the NBA has issued their own explanation on the matter, it certainly is confusing how the top brass decides on the matter
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