Author: Monojit Mandal
The Memphis Grizzlies faced the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 3 of the first round of the 2023 NBA playoffs. Nevertheless, the game took an unexpected turn when the Grizzlies’ Dillon Brooks was ejected at the start of the third quarter.
Brooks, who had been involved in a personal feud with LeBron James, was ejected for a foul. Brooks tried to catch James all over the court, but when he tried to catch the ball, he forced him to the ground.
The referees evaluated the case immediately and determined that Brooks’ foul was unnecessary contact, resulting in a Flagrant 2 and an automatic sending off. It’s important to mention that Brooks’ history, particularly with James, was taken into account during the scenario analysis.
Brooks’ flagrant foul
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The Grizzlies had just turned the ball over at the start of the third quarter, and James was carrying it around the court. Brooks tried to grab the ball when James crossed from left to right, but his arm made contact with James, forcing him to the ground in pain. It’s not the first time Brooks has gotten into a physical altercation with James. Brooks received a technical foul during Game 1 after a heated argument with James.
Brooks Ejection
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Brooks’ dismissal was a major setback for the Grizzlies, who were already trailing the Lakers. Brooks was vital for the Grizzlies throughout the game, and his absence was acutely felt in the second half.
What’s more, this expulsion raises major concerns for the Grizzlies in the future. Brooks now has two offenses in the playoffs, with three offenses resulting in a ban. With the Grizzlies already facing an uphill struggle against the Lakers, losing Brooks for an extended period could be catastrophic for their playoff chances.