The NBA announced Tuesday that Luka Dončić has been fined $50,000, after making what the league described as an “inappropriate and unprofessional gesture” toward a referee during the Los Angeles Lakers’ 110–97 victory over the New York Knicks on Sunday. The fine raises Dončić’s total league penalties this season to $95,000. The $50,000 punishment represents about 0.109% of his $46 million salary this year.
The incident happened late in the third quarter with 4:35 remaining. Dončić attempted to draw a charge against Knicks forward Mohamed Diawara during a fast break but was instead called for a blocking foul after contact sent him to the floor. While lying on his back, Dončić looked toward referee Tre Maddox and rubbed his fingers together in a “money” gesture, implying the call was influenced.
Despite the moment, the Lakers maintained control of the game. After the play — which led to a layup by New York that cut the deficit to 74–65 — Dončić responded with a strong finish. He ended the night with a game-high 35 points, along with eight rebounds, four assists, and two steals.
The All-Star guard has also had several disputes with officials throughout the season. In 52 games, he has accumulated 15 technical fouls — just one short of the automatic one-game suspension that comes with a 16th technical. Under NBA rules, every two additional technical fouls after that would trigger another suspension without pay. He currently trails Dillon Brooks for the most technical fouls in the league.
With 18 games remaining, the Lakers sit fifth in the Western Conference at 39–25 as they push toward the postseason. Dončić will also need to stay healthy and avoid missing too many games; under the league’s 65-game eligibility rule, players who miss 18 games are no longer eligible for major end-of-season awards.
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