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Fine Disparity Raises Concerns
Minneapolis, MN – Minnesota Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch has raised concerns about the NBA’s fine system, highlighting the disparity between recent fines issued to Jamal Murray of the Denver Nuggets and Rudy Gobert of the Timberwolves.
Gobert’s Repeat Gesture Draws $75,000 Fine
On Tuesday, Gobert was fined $75,000 for making a money gesture towards an official during Game 4 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Nuggets. This came after a $100,000 fine for the same gesture during the regular season.
Murray’s Towel-Throwing Incident Results in $100,000 Penalty
In contrast, Murray was fined $100,000 in Game 2 of the series after throwing a towel and a heating pad onto the court. Interestingly, Murray also made the money gesture during that incident, but it was not mentioned in the NBA’s fine announcement.
Finch Demands ‘Itemized Receipt’
Finch questioned the rationale behind the fines, stating, “If they are fining $75,000 for the gesture, then they must be charging $10,000 for the towel and $15,000 for the heating pad.”
Argument for Consistency
Finch’s comments highlight the need for consistency in the application of fines. He argues that Murray’s more dangerous actions, which could have resulted in injury to an unsuspecting player, should have warranted a more severe penalty.
Injury Update: Conley Out for Game 5
In other news, the Timberwolves announced that veteran point guard Mike Conley Jr. will miss Game 5 of the series due to an Achilles injury. Finch expects Conley to return for Game 6.
Conclusion
Chris Finch’s concerns about the NBA’s fine system are valid and raise important questions about the league’s approach to discipline. The disparity in fines between Gobert and Murray highlights the need for greater transparency and consistency in the process.
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