NBA ruling on Metta World Peace won’t come Monday
The NBA did not determine Monday the length of a likely suspension for Lakers forward Metta World Peace, according to a league official familiar with the situation.
The Lakers do not play again until Thursday, lessening the need for an immediate ruling, though a decision Tuesday seems to be a strong possibility.
World Peace was ejected from Sunday’s game against Oklahoma City after throwing an elbow at Thunder guard James Harden, who stayed on the court for a few minutes before leaving because of a concussion.
World Peace had just completed a fastbreak dunk against Kevin Durant and was pounding his chest when he elbowed Harden in the second quarter of the Lakers’ 114-106 double-overtime victory.
World Peace offered a brief explanation after the game, saying it was “unfortunate” and “unintentional.”
Thunder players and Coach Scott Brooks disagreed, with Brooks calling the play “unacceptable.”
The Lakers complete the regular season at Sacramento before beginning the playoffs this weekend at Staples Center against an opponent to be determined.
In other small-forward news for the Lakers, Matt Barnes went to the team training facility Monday for treatment on a sprained right ankle that was called “very tender” by a team spokesman. An update on his condition will be available Tuesday.
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