Wizards guard Isaiah Thomas was thrown off the floor on Friday night less than two minutes into a game against the Blazers after making contact with NBA official Marat Kogut. Thomas was trapped by Carmelo Anthony and Damian Lillard near the sideline, and as he wrestled with Anthony for possession of the ball, Thomas moved forward, stuck his arm out, and made contact with Kogut, who was standing right next to the play.
It’s difficult to tell whether Thomas made an effort to push the referee, or simply lost his balance while fighting for the ball with Anthony, and used Kogut to steady himself. Officials reviewed the play and the ejection was upheld.
Fans were stunned.
