Tyson Chandler Will Play In Game 5 Despite Throwing ‘Punch’ At Dwight Howard

If the Dallas Mavericks are to make history and become the first team ever to win a playoff series after trailing 3-0, Rick Carlisle will need a full complement of healthy players at his disposal. And after the NBA opted against suspending Tyson Chandler for his “punch” at Dwight Howard in Dallas’ Game 4 win over the Houston Rockets, it seems that will be the case.

Here’s Jonathan Feigen of the Houston Chronicle with more on the league office’s choice.

The NBA opted not to take any further action on an altercation in which Mavericks center Tyson Chandler seemed to take a swing at Rockets center Dwight Howard, a person with knowledge of the decision said.

The play will stand as called, as a double-technical foul.

Below is video of the altercation. As the big men separate and head down the floor after becoming entangled while battling for rebounding position, it seems Chandler throws a close-fisted jab towards Howard’s back.

We were surprised when officials didn’t eject Chandler following video review, and are equally vexed at the NBA’s decision to not take further action in the interim. League rules mandate a one-game suspension if a player tries to strike an opponent – whether he actually lands a blow or otherwise.

Howard, for his part, downplayed the entire incident – even stressing a seemingly honorable desire to face Chandler again in Game 5. Via the Chronicle:

“I want him to play,” Howard said. “I want him to play. Why not? We’re battling.”

Perhaps the Houston center wants his Dallas counterpart to play because he’s enjoyed so much success over the series’ first four games? Howard is averaging 18.7 points, 14.4 rebounds, and 3.2 blocks per-36 minutes against the Mavericks while shooting 61 percent from the floor.

If he can play up to that exalted level in tonight’s Game 5, the Rockets will be well on their way to the Western Conference Semifinals. Fortunately for the Mavericks, however, Chandler will be around to stop him – or at least try his best to do so.

Houston and Dallas tip-off at 8:00 EST from the Toyota Center.

[Houston ChronicleRocketsRed]

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