Following the Philadelphia 76ers' 112-108 win over the Brooklyn Nets, NBA referee and crew chief Ed Malloy explained the officials' side on what led to the ejections of Jimmy Butler and Jared Dudley, as well as the flagrant foul called on Joel Embiid, who were all involved in the third quarter melee.
The incident started on a hard foul by Embiid on Nets center Jarrett Allen during the 7:42 mark of the third period. Although it looked like a normal foul during replays, Dudley rushed to the aid of his teammate. The veteran forward pushed the Sixers big man, which led to Butler retaliating with a push as well. Things nearly escalated, but players and coaches from both teams rushed to the scene and stopped the fight.
NBA referee Ed Malloy comments to pool reporter after 76ers-Nets first round Playoff Game 4 pic.twitter.com/CQLhAeMMWy
— NBA Official (@NBAOfficial) April 20, 2019
Joel Embiid got a Flagrant 1, with Malloy explaining that “there was a wind up with unnecessary contact.”
Jimmy Butler and Jared Dudley, on the other hand were ejected for trying to initiate a fight during a situation that was deemed under control by the officials.
Butler exited the game with 11 points, four rebounds and four assists, while Dudley finished with eight points and six assists.
Since there were no punches thrown, Butler and Dudley aren't expected to be suspended for the next game.
Despite Butler's ejection, the Sixers still managed to beat the Nets and take a 3-1 series lead. A win in Game 5 will allow Philadelphia to advance into the second round.
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