Donte DiVincenzo of the New York Knicks is the first NBA player to face consequences for flopping in the new regulations implemented by the league.
The reserve combo guard received a $2,000 fine for a play in the second quarter of the Knicks’ opening night loss to the Boston Celtics. DiVincenzo appeared to flop after contact with Jaylen Brown and staggered out of bounds, yet received no foul call, nor a high five from Spike Lee.
Players whistled for flopping during a game will receive a technical foul. Both Kristaps Porzingis and Jalen Brunson received such techs in Wednesday’s game. However, if the flop is missed and detected after the contest has concluded, a fine will be assessed.
The rule, approved by the Board of Governors, penalizes players for flopping with a fine. The intention is to deter players from flopping by hitting them in the wallet. We covered it here. The rule is being trialed on a one-year trial basis. If the rule is nixed after the season, Donte won’t get a refund.
DiVincenzo, who joined the Knicks this past offseason, had a quiet first contest. In addition to his dramatic, skillful performance, he pulled down three rebounds, two assists, and scored zero points. On Friday night, the Knicks will play in Atlanta once more. Will Donte risk failing once more?
