The NBA has fined Boston Celtics forward Paul George $2,000 for flopping during Tuesday's 121-113 season-opening loss to the Detroit Pistons.
The penalty was assessed after a review of postgame video, which showed George making contact with Detroit guard Duncan Robinson in transition before dramatically falling to the floor in an attempt to draw a whistle. On-court officials did not call a foul in real time, but the league office determined that George had committed a violation under NBA regulations.
The fine is the minimum amount for a postgame flopping penalty, and it amounts to a relatively small sum for a player who is set to earn nearly $50 million this season. George's individual performance was otherwise impressive, as he scored 38 points on 12-of-21 shooting from the floor, including 7-of-12 from beyond the arc, and added five rebounds, five steals, and three assists in 31 minutes.
However, George's strong debut was ultimately overshadowed by Boston's collapse, which saw the Celtics squander a 22-point lead in the fourth quarter. A 23-0 run by Detroit, led by Robinson and Cade Cunningham, proved to be the decisive factor in the game.
The fine will not impact George's availability for Friday's game against the Philadelphia 76ers, his former team.
NTC Report coverage is based on reporting from the original publisher.
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