Aussie Matthew Dellavedova is making quite the name for himself in the NBA but it’s not exactly a good one. Dellavedova is building a reputation as a dirty player and he’s had three major incidents in the playoffs that have several people crying foul.
The first play occurred during game 5 of the Eastern Conference semi-finals between the Cleveland Cavaliers and Chicago Bulls. Dellavedova and Taj Gibson got tangled up. As Dellavedova laid on the floor, he put Gibson in a leg lock. What the refs saw was Gibson look like he was attempting to kick Dellavedova as he lay on the ground but really he was trying to kick himself free.
– Gibson was assessed a flagrant 2 foul and ejected from the game. Cavs won 106-101.
The second play occurred game 2 of the Eastern Conference finals. Dellavedova dove for the loose ball and landed on Kyle Korver’s leg awkwardly bending it. Korver was seen limping and hobbling around afterwards. Cavs won 94-82.
– Korver suffered an ankle injury and was ruled out for the rest of the playoffs. He now reportedly needs surgery and may be out 4-6 months.
The third play occurred during game 3 in the Eastern Conference finals. Dellavedova and Al Horford were fighting for a rebound. Dellavedova began to fall on Horford’s leg and Horford retaliated by elbowing Dellavedova. Cavs won 114-111 in overtime.
– Horford was assessed a flagrant 2 foul and ejected from the game. Dellavedova was given a technical foul.
So fair or foul? Is Matthew Dellavedova a dirty player?
