Dallas Mavericks forward Khris Middleton has been issued a $25,000 fine after “throwing his mouthpiece in the direction of the spectator stands,” the NBA announced in an official press release.
The league stated that the episode took place with 6:55 left in the third quarter of Thursday’s road game against Orlando.
Middleton was assessed a technical foul during the game for the act, which automatically triggered a $2,000 fine, in addition to the larger $25,000 penalty handed down afterward.
As reported by Mike Curtis of The Dallas Morning News, Middleton reacted in frustration after officials did not call a foul on a play where he lost possession while being guarded by Jalen Suggs.
In response, he tossed his mouthpiece toward the area near the Dallas bench. The item landed close to a fan seated courtside before sliding in the direction of assistant coach Jay Triano.
Despite the incident, Middleton recorded 19 points and seven assists in the contest, though he also committed six turnovers in the narrow one-point defeat.
At age 34, Middleton is making $33.3 million in the final season of his current contract, meaning the financial penalties are relatively minor compared to his salary.
Khris Middleton was fined for his actions in Thursday's game at Orlando: https://t.co/havNjtcyEz
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) March 8, 2026
