Suspensions Issued: Kris Dunn and Jabari Smith Jr. Disciplined for Altercation

Following an altercation during Saturday night's game, Kris Dunn, the guard for the Utah Jazz, and Jabari Smith Jr., the forward for the Houston Rockets, have each been suspended. The incident occurred just five seconds into the second quarter, with the Rockets leading 47-21. Dunn and Smith Jr. became entangled while the ball was being brought up the court, resulting in a physical altercation.

Both players and officials from both teams intervened to break up the scuffle that ensued. During the altercation, Dunn and Smith Jr. exchanged punches, although it seemed that none of them connected. The Rockets ultimately secured a decisive victory with a blowout score of 147-119.

The next day, disciplinary actions were taken. Smith Jr. was handed a one-game suspension, while Dunn received a two-game suspension. Dunn's suspension was longer as he was seen as the instigator of the fight and threw the first punch. Both suspensions will be without pay.

Houston's Jabari Smith Jr. (one game) and Utah's Kris Dunn (two games) have each been suspended for their altercation.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) March 24, 2024

Dunn's suspension will take effect on Monday, coinciding with the Utah Jazz's match against the Dallas Mavericks. He will also be unavailable for the subsequent game against the San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday. On the other hand, Smith Jr. will be absent from the Houston Rockets' game against the Portland Trail Blazers on Monday. Smith Jr. declined to engage with reporters after the game.

Both Dunn and Smith Jr. have been role players for their respective teams this season. This season with the Rockets, the second-year rookie has maintained an average of 13.3 points and 8.3 rebounds per game. In reaction to the disciplinary action, Smith Jr. took to the platform X (formerly known as Twitter) and posted a simple message saying, "Lol."

Lol

— Jabari Smith Jr (@jabarismithjr) March 24, 2024

Dunn, coming off the bench, has contributed 5.3 points and 3.9 rebounds per game this season. Although these numbers may not appear exceptional, Dunn has been a valuable asset for the Jazz due to his excellent defense, averaging over a steal per game.

Unfortunately, both players have not significantly impacted their teams' playoff aspirations. The Rockets currently hold a record of 35-35, placing them 11th in the Western Conference, while the Jazz trail behind at 29-42, ranking 12th in the West. The defeat against the Rockets on Saturday extended Utah's losing streak to six consecutive games.