Utah Jazz head coach Will Hardy explained the team’s approach following the NBA’s $500,000 fine.
“I sat Lauri because he was on a minutes restriction. If our medical team puts a minutes restriction on Lauri, I’ll try to keep Lauri healthy,” Hardy said.
The league fined the Jazz for conduct deemed detrimental after sitting Markkanen and Jaren Jackson Jr. late in games against Orlando and Miami.
Commissioner Adam Silver emphasized that actions prioritizing draft positioning over competition would not be tolerated.
Jazz owner Ryan Smith voiced disagreement on social media, questioning the fine despite Utah’s win in Miami.
Smith engaged in an X exchange with ESPN’s Bobby Marks regarding fines and competitive advantage, highlighting the perception of tanking penalties as a calculated cost.
The fine comes as Utah sits 13th in the Western Conference at 18-38, losing seven of their last ten games.
The league’s investigation included independent physician reviews and evaluations of compliance with the Player Participation Policy.
The Jazz are now under scrutiny as the NBA works with the Competition Committee and Board of Governors to prevent similar infractions in future games.
