Cruel world, the NBA. As Glen Rice, Jr. played pressure defense on J.R. Smith near halfcourt in the Washington Wizards’ win over the New York Knicks last night, Rice suddenly goes down in a heap when Smith begins his drive. There’s nothing notable about the sequence on the surface, and a foul was even called on the Wizards’ shooting guard. But a discerning eye catches what the officials obviously didn’t – Smith aggressively extending his left arm to Rice’s groin while putting the ball on the floor.
Again, it bears mentioning that referee Joey Crawford charged with Rice with the foul. Smith’s blow was so innocuous that most everyone in Madison Square Garden seemed to miss it entirely.
Watching the clip multiple times over, though, it’s easy to believe that the former Sixth Man of the Year grew so frustrated with Rice’s intensity that he reacted with a dirty play. Ballhandlers use their off-arm to shield themselves from defenders on every possession in a basketball game – there’s a reason why the defense very rarely succumbs to groin discomfort as a result of that contact. Namely, because the offensive players almost always makes it above the waist.
It’s not like Smith is out of control or anything, either. He has full capacity of his movements, and clearly makes his left arm flat as opposed to the 90-degree angle or “bar” that dribblers typically utilize. And as Rice goes for the steal and creates some contact, Smith looks to the backcourt in exasperation.
The Wizards certainly believe there was intent involved. Via J. Michael of CSNWashington, they appealed to the league office for an official review of the incident:
The Wizards expect the league office to review and expect some form of discipline to come soon…
It’s standard for the league office to review plays such as these in case game officials miss the call. The Wizards, CSNwashington.com is told, will be in contact and encourage the NBA to render a judgment on the play which could result in a fine, suspension or both for Smith.
It’s always dangerous for the NBA to assume malice in situations like these. Obviously, there’s enough grey here to see the black and white of Smith’s actions. But there’s certainly a precedent for discipline, and this one from the 2012-2013 season involving Dwyane Wade and Ramon Sessions seems comparable to us:
Wade was suspended one game. And while Smith’s purpose isn’t quite as clear as Wade’s was, we wouldn’t be surprised if the league levied the same punishment – and certainly a hefty fine.
(Videos via CSN Washington and Heat Basketball)
Did Smith hit Rice intentionally?
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