Lakers’ Doncic fined $50K for “money” gesture toward official

LOS ANGELES — The NBA declared on Tuesday that Luka Doncic has incurred a $50,000 fine for making an “inappropriate and unprofessional gesture” directed at an official during the Los Angeles Lakers’ 110-97 victory against the New York Knicks.

On Sunday, with 4:35 left in the third quarter, Doncic sought to draw a charge against Knicks forward Mohamed Diawara, but was instead assessed a blocking foul.

As Doncic lay on the court following the collision with Diawara, he was observed rubbing his fingers together in a “money” gesture while looking at referee Tre Maddox.

This financial penalty represents approximately 0.109% of Doncic’s $46 million earnings for the current season.

This season, Doncic has frequently clashed with league officials, accumulating 15 technical fouls across 52 games played. Should he receive a 16th technical foul, he will face a mandatory one-game suspension.

The Lakers (39-25) are scheduled to play host to the Minnesota Timberwolves (40-24) this Tuesday evening.

This report incorporates details provided by the Associated Press.