Udonis Haslem is the only previous player to be suspended for throwing his mouthguard, but that was because he threw it at a referee. Regardless, the Golden State Warriors will not have to play Game 7 of the NBA Finals without two-time MVP Steph Curry. As most expected, he was only fined for throwing his mouthpiece after fouling out of Game 6, according to ESPN’s Marc J. Spears.
Stephen Curry (throwing mouthpiece) and coach Steve Kerr (postgame criticism of officiating) each fined $25k for incidents from Finals Gm 6.
— Marc J. Spears (@MarcJSpears) June 17, 2016
The fine amount for the transgression isn’t new. Eyes Kanter was fined $25K for throwing his mouthguard into the stands a couple years ago. Paul Pierce got a $15K fine for tossing his game-used gum in the crowd in 2011.
In addition to Curry getting a $25K fine for his actions, his coach, Steve Kerr, has also received the same fine for his harsh criticism of the officials after the game. Kerr condoned Curry throwing his mouthpiece and also said that several of Curry’s fouls were “absolutely ridiculous,” so it’s not surprising a fine came his way.
After the Warriors had to play their first close-out game of this year’s finals without Draymond Green, they were assuredly worried that Curry’s mouthpiece malfeasance meant a suspension could be coming. Fortunately for them, the fine doled out was what everyone expected, so he will be able suit up in the game that will decide the world champions.
Although Kerr and Curry will not be thrilled with having to so much money, if it means Curry can play in Game 7 on Sunday and help lead the Warriors to back-to-back titles, I’m sure they will make that trade.
