Rajon Rondo might deny trying to trip Jae Crowder, but the NBA’s not buying it.
The enigmatic point guard was fined $25,000 on Sunday for the incident, which occurred during the Chicago Bulls’ 104-87 loss in Game 3 of their first-round NBA playoff series against the Boston Celtics.
Rondo, who’s out indefinitely with a fractured thumb, said after the game that he was trying to “stretch out” his surgically repaired right ACL.
@NBA announces $25,000 fine for Rajon Rondo for tripping Jae Crowder in Game 3. pic.twitter.com/gwCKGaZ4tm
— Mike Petraglia (@Trags) April 23, 2017
Despite sitting out, Rondo found a way to steal the game’s headlines, as his antics with his feet were closely rivaled by his polarizing fashion choice.
Although the Celtics certainly weren’t thrilled with Rondo’s actions on the bench, they’re probably glad he’s there instead of on the court. After Rondo dominated Games 1 and 2, his absence clearly was felt by the Bulls in Game 3, as the Celtics coasted to their first win of the series.
The teams will renew their budding rivalry in Game 4, which tips off Sunday at 6:30 p.m. ET.
Thumbnail photo via Mike DiNovo/USA TODAY Sports Images