NBA Reopens Investigation Into Lakers' Hayes After New Video Emerges
The NBA has reopened its investigation into Los Angeles Lakers center Dwight Howard after a new video emerged that appears to show him elbowing Houston Rockets center Omer Asik in the head.
The incident occurred in the fourth quarter of Game 4 of the Western Conference semifinals on Monday night. Howard was initially assessed a flagrant 1 foul, but the NBA upgraded it to a flagrant 2 foul after reviewing the play.
The new video, which was obtained by TMZ Sports, shows Howard elbowing Asik in the head as Asik was attempting to box him out for a rebound. Asik was visibly stunned by the blow, and he had to leave the game.
The NBA has not yet announced what punishment Howard will receive for the incident. However, it is possible that he could be suspended for one or more games.
Timeline of Events
Possible Punishment
The NBA could punish Howard in a number of ways, including:
The severity of Howard's punishment will likely depend on the results of the NBA's investigation.