The Phoenix Suns will be missing their back up center in their next game against the Portland Trail Blazers. Robin Lopez will be serving a one-game suspension for the incident that got him ejected in his previous contest against the Toronto Raptors. Here's part of the press release.
NEW YORK, Jan. 25, 2012 – Robin Lopez of the Phoenix Suns has been suspended one game without pay for improper conduct towards a game official, it was announced today by Stu Jackson, NBA Executive Vice President Basketball Operations.
The incident, in which Lopez made contact with an official, occurred with 8:14 remaining in the second quarter of the Suns’ 99-96 loss to the Toronto Raptors at U.S. Airways Center in Phoenix, Ariz. on Jan. 24.
Lopez didn't get a call in the post against Toronto, wasn't happy about it, then eventually fouled a Raptor before heading back to the sideline. But as he walked to the bench, he not only glared at the referee that he presumed missed the call, he bumped into him on the way back to the sideline. That's a big no-no, and what earned him the one game suspension. You can see the incident unfold :40 into this clip from NBA.com.
It's unlikely you'll see much of a defense from the coaching staff, as Alvin Gentry seems willing to sweep the incident under the rug.
"I don't know. I don't really give a shit to tell the truth. You have to talk to him about that."
To discuss Lopez with other Suns fans, check out Bright Side of the Sun where the incident prompted calls to trade Lopez.
It's Time for the Phoenix Suns to Trade Robin Lopez - Bright Side Of The Sun
As if losing to the Raptors at home last night wasn't bad enough, Suns center Robin Lopez got himself ejected from the game in the second quarter due to another of his failures at temper control. It was a new low for Lopez in a season that had started so well for the Suns big man.
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