Game 3 of the second round playoff series between the Washington Wizards and Boston Celtics was a hotly-contested one. Both teams were very physical and emotions ran high throughout.
With 9:12 left in the second quarter, tensions mounted when Kelly Oubre Jr retaliated with a strong shove on Kelly Olynyk following a hard screen set on him. The 21-year-old Kansas product was ejected from the game and could face a suspension or fine from the league office.
During the post-game press conference, Wizards head coach Scott Brooks was asked to give his thoughts on the incident. He admitted that he has yet to speak to Oubre but will definitely discuss it with him to remind him to keep his emotions in check despite whatever happens on the court. He then added that he can't blame OUbre from responding the way he did.
“One, I think we've got to control our emotion. We can't respond that way. But when you get hit in the head a few times — I mean we're very competitive guys out there. We have two teams, very competitive. If you keep getting hit in the head, you might respond that way.”
Wizards coach Scott Brooks on Kelly Oubre blasting Kelly Olynyk: "If you keep getting hit in the head, you might respond that way." pic.twitter.com/RTnDcgRl0U
— Ben Golliver (@BenGolliver) May 5, 2017
The Wizards and their fans are hoping the 6-foot-7 swingman can get away with his actions without receiving any further punishment, as he plays an important role for his team. In eight playoff games so far, Oubre is averaging 6.9 points, 2.9 rebounds and 1.3 steals in only 19.0 minutes per game.
After the blowout win on Thursday night by the Wizards, the Celtics are expected to play better in their next game as they try to bounce back quickly to win Game 4 to give them the opportunity to close out the series on their home court. That said, Oubre's potential suspension could be huge for the Wizards, who will need another player to step up if he is indeed forced to take an absence.
Follow Us
Subscribe