Video: Kyle O'Quinn ejected for flagrant hit to Blake Griffin's head
Magic forward Kyle O'Quinn was ejected for delivering a flagrant foul to Clippers All-Star forward Blake Griffin during a Wednesday night game at the Staples Center.
With a little under six minutes remaining and the Clippers leading 38-35, Griffin attacked the hoop after pump-faking from the free-throw line. O'Quinn, who was defending DeAndre Jordan in the post, stepped up to contest Griffin's possible layup or dunk attempt and struck Griffin in the face after first contacting his wrist and the ball. Griffin fell hard to the ground.
The officials executed a video review and assessed O'Quinn a flagrant foul 2, a designation that applies to contact that is deemed "unnecessary and excessive" and which requires an automatic ejection. O'Quinn departed with six points (on 3-for-3 shooting) and one rebound in seven minutes.
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Griffin was able to remain the game.
The NBA league office will review the foul, as it does all flagrant fouls, and determine whether to tack on an additional fine and/or suspension. Earlier this season, Nuggets forward Darrell Arthur and Lakers guard Ronnie Price each received one-game suspensions for delivering flagrant blows to an opponent's head. Nuggets guard Arron Afflalo was also fined $15,000 earlier this week for a similar play.
