The NBA fined the Atlanta Hawks $100,000 on Tuesday after an investigation determined that guard Trae Young could have played in an NBA Cup game against the Boston Celtics on Nov. 12.
The Hawks listed Young on their injury report that night as out because of tendinitis in his right Achilles. Atlanta wound up winning the game anyway 117-116.
The issue, the NBA said, was that the Hawks were in violation of the league’s player participation policy — which focuses primarily on what the league defines as star players, a group that Young would qualify for since he was an All-Star selection last season. By league rule, “unless a team demonstrates an approved reason for a star player not to participate in a game,” it must have the star players “for all national television and NBA In-Season Tournament games.”
“Following an investigation, including review by an independent physician, the NBA determined that the Hawks held Young out of a game that he could have played in under the medical standard in the policy,” the league said. “The organization’s conduct violated the policy, which is intended to promote participation in the NBA’s regular season.”
That game against the Celtics is the only one Young has missed this season.
All eyes were on the LA Clippers and Boston Celtics last night as they faced off in a battle between the NBA's two hottest teams. Unfortunately for the Clippers
Who's PlayingMilwaukee Bucks @ Miami HeatCurrent Records: Milwaukee 8-9, Miami 7-7How To WatchWhat to Know
The Washington Wizards have lost 11 consecutive games, giving them the worst record in the NBA.They also have the lowest placement in NBA.com writer John Schuhm
Many fans continue to speculate about the Miami Heat's blueprint for February's trade deadline, but it seems the front office may not have much of a plan at all