NEW YORK, (Reuters) – Denver Nuggets coach George Karl has labelled as “crazy” the $25,000 fine imposed by the NBA on forward Kenyon Martin for a flagrant foul in the opening game of the playoff series against the Dallas Mavericks.
“The NBA is amazing, absolutely amazing,” Karl was quoted as saying in yesterday’s Denver Post. “That’s all I’m going to say, other than it’s way out of line, crazy.”
Karl defended Martin, who was fined for a first-quarter shoulder knockdown of Dirk Nowitzki in Denver’s 109-95 win.
“I’m confused, I saw some hits in Chicago-Boston, Atlanta-Miami and this was not on top of the list from my observation,” Karl said.
Karl said he did not disagree with the rules but felt there was a lack of consistency from referees.
“They’re trying to make the game a basketball game and not a wrestling match or boxing match,” Karl said. “The consistency (is) what we’re trying to figure out.
“As a coach I’ve got to help Kenyon through this and I’m having trouble doing it.
