Bulls' Joakim Noah blames 'roid rage' for ejection of Wizards' Nene
Bulls center Joakim Noah couldn't help but laugh after Wizards forward Nene made a crucial error in judgement by getting ejected for a Game 3 altercation with Bulls guard Jimmy Butler.
The Washington Post reports that Noah was all smiles and wisecracks after Chicago prevailed 100-97 over Washington on Friday. The NBA's Defensive Player of the Year is expecting Nene to be suspended by the league office after the Brazilian big man grabbed Butler around the neck and went forehead-to-forehead with him.
“Looks like you’re going to lose Nene for a game,” the Chicago Bulls center said to no one in particular as he shuffled down the hall outside the Verizon Center press room. Almost cackling, he added, “What a bummer. [Stinks] for you guys.”
A few steps later, he mouthed, “ ’Roid rage."
The altercation, which occurred early in the fourth quarter, saw Nene receive two technical fouls, triggering an automatic ejection, while Butler received just one. The NBA league office will undoubtedly review the incident and has the ability to level a fine and/or a suspension for the incident.
Nene departed with 10 points (on 5-for-15 shooting), four rebounds and three assists in 29 minutes after previously playing an instrumental role in Washington's victories in Games 1 and 2 in Chicago.
Mike Dunleavy tallied a game-high 35 points (on 12-for-19 shooting), five rebounds and three assists for Chicago. Butler added 15 points (on 3-for-7 shooting), five rebounds and two assists in the win.
Bradley Beal led the Wizards with a team-high 25 points (on 8-for-18 shooting), five assists and four rebounds. John Wall added 23 points (on 7-for-14 shooting), seven assists and four steals in a losing effort.
Washington (No. 5) now holds a 2-1 series lead over Chicago (No. 5). Game 4 is set for Sunday at the Verizon Center.
