In the annals of NBA history, there are moments etched in blood—intense battles that left players battered, bruised, and determined to claim victory. One such unforgettable clash occurred during the 2004 NBA Playoffs, where Sacramento’s Anthony Peeler and Minnesota’s Kevin Garnett engaged in a fierce showdown.
In May 16, 2004: Sacramento’s Anthony Peeler and Kevin Garnett of Minnesota throw elbows during Game 6 of the WCSF. Peeler was ejected and suspended two games without pay. Garnett was fined $7,500. The Kings defeated the Timberwolves, 104-87, to tie the series at 3-3.”
May 16, 2004: Sacramento's Anthony Peeler and Kevin Garnett of Minnesota throw elbows during Game 6 of the WCSF.
Peeler was ejected and suspended two games without pay. Garnett was fined $7,500. The Kings defeated the Timberwolves, 104-87, to tie the series at 3-3. pic.twitter.com/J6KxdAQapu
— NBA Cobwebs (@NBACobwebs) May 16, 2024
Kings and Wolves: A Rivalry Simmering
The 2004 Western Conference Semifinals wasn’t just any playoff series. It was a clash between two talented teams with a history of animosity. The Kings, led by the explosive duo of Chris Webber and Peja Stojakovic, were hungry for a championship after years of playoff disappointments. The Timberwolves, with Kevin Garnett as their emotional leader, were a defensive juggernaut aiming to return to the NBA Playoffs Finals. This simmering tension boiled over in Game 6.
Elbows Thrown, Lines Crossed: The Peeler-Garnett Incident
With the series tied at 3-3, the pressure was immense. Late in the game, frustration mounted, culminating in a controversial incident. Anthony Peeler and Kevin Garnett became entangled, and Peeler landed an elbow on Garnett’s face. The play sparked a shoving match and resulted in Peeler’s ejection and a two-game suspension. Garnett received a hefty fine for his role in the altercation.
Beyond the Brawl: A Series Defined by Physicality
The Peeler-Garnett incident was just one example of the physical nature of this series. Both teams employed a rough, physical style of play, pushing the boundaries of what was considered acceptable. While some saw it as passionate and competitive, others criticized it as unnecessary violence.
Despite the controversy, the Kings emerged victorious in Game 6. The win not only tied the series but also shifted momentum in their favor. They went on to win Game 7, advancing to the Western Conference Finals for the first time in franchise history.
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