Share
Sports

Isaiah Thomas and Rajon Rondo both ejected after on-court scuffle - 'uncalled for'

Share

There’s always been the prevailing thought in Boston that once you play for the Celtics, you’re always a Celtic.

Apparently Rajon Rondo and Isaiah Thomas didn’t get the message.

Their on-court scuffle Wednesday night led to both players being ejected in the Pelicans’ 139-117 win over the Lakers.

Things got physical right away, with Rondo elbowing Thomas when he checked into the game.

Trending:
KJP Panics, Hangs Up in Middle of Interview When Reporter Shows He Isn't a Democratic Party Propagandist

Later in the quarter, the heat was turned up, with New Orleans already up by 17 points.

This all started last month, when the Celtics were planning a video tribute for Thomas, whom they traded to Cleveland in the offseason.

But the point guard had just returned from a hip injury and wasn’t going to play, so he asked for the video to be played during his next trip to Boston, which was scheduled for this past Sunday.

Unfortunately for him, that also marked the retirement of Paul Pierce’s number, so the tribute was canceled.

Rondo — who helped lead the Celtics to the 2008 NBA championship — came out and said Thomas didn’t even deserve a tribute since he was only in Boston for just over two seasons and never won a title there.

According to multiple reports, Rondo began attacking his counterpart verbally Wednesday night, which led to the altercation.

Thomas seemed bewildered, saying, “I don’t know what was going on with him. I don’t know why I got thrown out. It was obvious what was going on; he was being too aggressive for some reason, then he hit me in my face three times. …

Related:
Video: Incredible NBA 'Dunk of the Year' Leaves Opponent Injured

“Whatever reason, he’s an upset guy about me. I don’t know what it is, but it’s fine. He kept bringing the tribute up, when I was the one that shut the tribute down. I’m far past that. … For me to be ejected was uncalled for.”

Rondo’s problems with Thomas came to light last month during New Orleans’ trip to Boston.

Rondo has always been an emotional player (just ask Ray Allen), but with his Pelicans holding just a half-game lead for the last playoff spot, this outburst could have long-term ramifications should he get suspended.

The Lakers and Pelicans play again on March 22, so mark that down in the calendar — unless you’d rather wait for the Celtics alumni game.

Truth and Accuracy

Submit a Correction →



We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.

Tags:
, ,
Share
Mike is an 11-time Michigan Emmy Award winner who has spent nearly 30 years working in sports media.
Mike has spent nearly 30 years in all aspects of sports media, including on-air, 10 at ESPN and another 10 at Fox Sports Detroit. He now works as a TV agent, and lives with his family in West Bloomfield, MI.
Birthplace
Sudbury, Massachusetts
Honors/Awards
11-time Michigan Emmy winner
Education
Emerson College
Books Written
The Longest Year: One Family's Journey Of Life, Death, And Love/If These Walls Could Talk: Detroit Tigers/If These Walls Could Talk: Detroit Lions
Topics of Expertise
Sports




Conversation