The Golden State Warriors are through to the second round and have a matchup with the San Antonio Spurs, but that didn't stop Mark Jackson from getting hit with a hefty fine for the comments he made following Game 5 in the series.
According to ESPN.com, Jackson was upset with the style of play in the Game 5 107-100 loss for the Warriors and after the game he was very critical of the Nuggets and the officials. Jackson said that Denver went after injured guard Stephen curry and that they sent "hit men" and took "cheap shots" at him during the game on his injured ankle. He also spoke about Kenneth Faried and his foul in the game that knocked down Curry with a leg shot.
Jackson was not fined for criticizing referees, but for an "attempt to influence the officiating" in the following game after his comments. He did not say whether he would appeal or not, but since the team won the series, his feelings may cool down for a bit. Curry has been the best player for the Warriors during the series and he was key in the Game 6 victory.
George Karl said he felt the Warriors were being just as dirty and now the Nuggets are left wondering how a season with 57 wins and just three home losses could get away.
"For two years now, I've taken pride in not ever criticizing referees -- for two years. And then reading the statement by the NBA, I'm extremely thankful I am not fined for criticizing referees," Jackson said before Game 6 against the Nuggets on Thursday night.
