The NBA isn’t exactly doing the Oklahoma City Thunder any favors during the early part of their schedule. This flagrant foul call on Carmelo Anthony earlier in the week is a prime example of that.
Now, the league has decided to fine several members of the Thunder $15,000 each for criticizing the officiating following Sunday’s game against the Portland Trail Blazers.
Head coach Billy Donovan, reigning NBA MVP Russell Westbrook and the recently acquired Paul George all drew fines.
https://twitter.com/NBAOfficial/status/928407458002931714
On one hand, no matter how bad officiating is, they should have known speaking out publicly against the zebras would have ultimately resulted in a fine. On the other hand, the officiating was just brutal this past Sunday. Paying out $15,000 to air their frustration might have been a small price to pay for these three.