Lakers’ Luka Doncic makes financial pledge to Adou Thiero after embarrassing Game 4 ejection

One of the biggest storylines entering the NBA playoffs was whether or not Luka Doncic would have any sort of effect this postseason.

While that answer has remained at zero when it comes to matter on the court as he’s still recovering from a Grade 2 hamstring strain, Doncic is finding ways to contribute in other manners.

At least financially.

According to reports, Doncic has agreed to pay any NBA-levied fine given to teammate Adou Thiero after the rookie was ejected in the Game 4 loss.

With just over a minute left in the game, Thiero and Rockets veteran guard Aaron Holiday came face-to-face following a Dalton Knecht three that. After being physical during the box out, the two players began jawing at one another before being separated by teammates.

Typically a situation like this, particularly in the postseason, is nothing to scoff but official James Williams felt differently.

After having already ejected Lakers starting center Deandre Ayton earlier in the game on a call that was questioned by both the Lakers and Rockets postgame, Williams asserted himself and promptly tossed Thiero and Holiday.

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The move confused and angered Lakers head coach JJ Redick and star LeBron James.

“I didn’t get a great explanation on Adou,” said Redick after the game when asked why he was ejected. “I’m sure James [Williams] will give you that.”

“I’m more pissed off about them kicking Adou out,” James said after the game. “I thought that was uncalled for and made no sense. That’s the first time he’s ever been thrown out of a game in his life. I don’t think that was warranted. That was ridiculous.”

Game 5 of the series between the Rockets and Lakers is set for Wednesday at 7 p.m. PT on ESPN.

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