The Charlotte Hornets’ home game against the Philadelphia 76ers on Saturday night was overshadowed by a contentious incident in the third quarter. Rookie Brandon Miller, the Hornets’ second-round pick in 2024, was disqualified for a flagrant elbow to the face of Sixers standout guard Tyrese Maxey. The event ignited a debate in the NBA about on-court conduct and player safety.
Brandon Miller was ejected from the game for this foul that the refs called a flagrant 2 foul. pic.twitter.com/iPnlqiow6q
— Bally Sports: Hornets (@HornetsOnBally) March 17, 2024
Rookie Brandon Miller Ejected for Elbow to Maxey’s Face: Flagrant Foul or Mishap? Debate Erupts After Controversial Call
Late in the second quarter, Miller operated in the corner with Maxey defending. As Maxey applied intense pressure, Miller attempted to create space. Unfortunately, his right elbow struck Maxey square in the nose, causing the Sixers guard to collapse to the ground. The nearest official promptly whistled Miller for an offensive foul.
Given the severity of the contact, the referees reviewed the incident using video replay. Ultimately, they upgraded the foul to a Flagrant 2, resulting in Rookie Brandon Miller’s automatic ejection from the game. The decision sparked debate, with some feeling it was too harsh for a rookie’s first career ejection.
Maxey, who joked that he might take up UFC, defended Rookie Brandon Miller, suggesting that the elbow wasn’t intentional. Despite a sore and bloody nose, Maxey remained in the game and played a pivotal role in securing the Sixers’ much-needed win. His resilience and scoring prowess were crucial for the team’s success.
The Miller-Maxey incident highlights the NBA’s ongoing concern about player safety. In recent years, the league has tightened its regulations on harsh fouls to reduce excessive contact and safeguard players from head injuries. This event reignites the issue of finding a balance between rough play and player safety.
The NBA will most likely analyze the play to decide whether Miller will face extra-disciplinary punishment. He could face a punishment based on the league’s evaluation of his purpose. The Hornets will also need to address the issue internally, possibly by providing coaching or instruction on how to maintain a clean playing style.
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