Particle.news
Download on the App Store
8 ARTICLES
·
2mo ago

Utah Jazz Fined $100K for Violating NBA Player Participation Policy

The NBA penalized the Jazz for resting star player Lauri Markkanen without valid justification, citing concerns about league integrity and fan experience.

Image
Feb 22, 2025; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen (23) brings the ball up the court against Houston Rockets forward Amen Thompson (back) during the first half at Delta Center. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-Imagn Images/File Photo
Image
The NBA logo is seen on a backboard before the game between the Denver Nuggets and the Utah Jazz at Ball Arena on October 30, 2023 in Denver, Colorado.

Overview

  • The Utah Jazz were fined $100,000 by the NBA for failing to make Lauri Markkanen available for their March 5 game against the Washington Wizards and other recent games.
  • The league’s Player Participation Policy, introduced in the 2023-24 season, aims to ensure star players participate in regular-season games unless a valid reason is provided.
  • Markkanen, who has been listed with a back injury but is believed to be healthy, had not played since February 22 before being cleared to play on March 12.
  • The NBA suspects the Jazz may have rested Markkanen to improve their chances in the upcoming draft, as they hold a 15-50 record, among the league's worst this season.
  • Teams face escalating fines for repeated violations of the policy, with penalties increasing to $250,000 for a second offense and higher amounts for subsequent infractions.