The NBA has issued discipline to two Los Angeles Lakers guards before a pivotal Game 5, adding another layer of tension to an already heated first-round playoff series.
Marcus Smart, Luke Kennard Fined by NBA After Game 4
According to the league’s official announcement, Marcus Smart was fined $35,000 for questioning the integrity of game officials, while Luke Kennard received a $25,000 fine for directing inappropriate language toward officials.
The incidents stemmed from the Lakers’ 115-96 loss to the Houston Rockets in Game 4 at Toyota Center, a contest that was overshadowed by controversy surrounding officiating decisions.
The fines were announced by executive vice president and head of basketball operations James Jones.
Deandre Ayton Ejection Sparks Controversy
Much of the frustration traces back to the third quarter of Game 4, when Lakers center Deandre Ayton was ejected after being assessed a Flagrant 2 foul on Alperen Sengun.
The play occurred during a routine post battle, with Ayton’s arm appearing to slip and make contact with Sengun’s head. While the contact was clear, the severity of the call quickly became a point of contention.
Flagrant 2 fouls are defined by excessive and unnecessary force, typically leaving little room for debate. However, this decision drew immediate pushback from players, coaches and observers.
Marcus Smart Reacts to Ayton Ejection
Following the game, Smart did not hide his frustration.
“We all understood it was some BS,” Smart said. “We’re proud of the way he handled it. That speaks volumes about who he is and his progression.”
Smart also described the late-game ejection of rookie Adou Thiero and ensuing frustration as “hilarious,” reflecting a mix of disbelief and exasperation from the Lakers locker room.
Lakers Players, Coaches Defend Ayton
Lakers head coach JJ Redick echoed that sentiment, emphasizing that the play was not intentional.
“[Ayton] has got such a sweet, just kind of soul,” Redick said. “I know that wasn’t dirty or intentional. It looked like he was trying to brace himself, and his arm just slipped.”
LeBron James also questioned the call, noting how difficult it would be to intentionally deliver that type of contact.
“You have to be pretty damn good at it to elbow someone like that on purpose,” James said.
Ayton himself maintained the contact was accidental.
“I was trying to brace for contact… we’re both sweaty guys, and I just slipped,” he said. “It looked crazy on camera, but it definitely wasn’t intentional.”
Officiating Under Scrutiny Heading Into Game 5
The lack of a postgame pool report from the officiating crew only fueled frustration.
While Flagrant 2 fouls do not automatically result in suspension, the league is expected to review the play. A downgrade to a Flagrant 1 is considered more likely than further discipline.
The decision has also reignited broader conversations around playoff officiating consistency, with multiple players around the league previously voicing concerns.
What This Means for Game 5
The fines and lingering controversy arrive at a critical moment.
The Lakers, holding a 3-1 series lead, will look to close out the Rockets in Game 5 at Crypto.com Arena. Meanwhile, Houston is fighting to extend its season and force a return to Texas.
With emotions already running high, the league’s decision put the officiating — and how players respond to it — under heavy scrutiny as the series turns physical.
And with elimination on the line, any call — or reaction to one — could once again shape the outcome.
NBA Announces Marcus Smart, Luke Kennard News Before Game 5