Axel wrote:Andrew wrote:I don't think sending a message through an intentional elbow is deemed acceptable by the rulebook at any stage of the NBA season.
I'm sorry, but that's just how things go when emotions and stakes are higher. "Sending a message" is a part of the game, and more so in the playoffs. History has shown that more physical contact is allowed in the post-season, and it seems that this ruling was made in part due to Ron Artest's past.
So what you're saying is unsportsmanlike conduct is a part of the game? I'm sorry, but that's absurd and again if you check the rulebook, I think you'll find that the rulings on elbows are pretty clean-cut no matter what time of year it is. Again, there's a difference between being physical or "sending a message" as you've put it and flatout being dirty or unsportsmanlike.
Are you suggesting that if a player threw a punch during a playoff game it would be acceptable because "more physical contact is allowed" and "emotions and stakes are much higher"? Why should it be different for a flagrant elbow, something that is also effective at injuring another player?
Don't get me wrong, I don't much care for Ginobili but as far as Artest's reputation preceeding him...well, much of that he's brought upon himself. The one game suspension is hardly without precedent when it comes to contact like this, playoffs or otherwise. Basketball is a physical sport, more physical than a non-contact sport is in theory, but there is a line and when it comes to intentionally striking another player in a manner that can cause injury - whether it does or not - you've crossed that line.