The hidden side of politics

Durant, Beverley ejected late in Warriors’ win

Reported by ESPN:

OAKLAND, Calif. — Golden State forward Kevin Durant and LA Clippers guard Patrick Beverley were ejected in the fourth quarter of the Warriors’ playoff-opening 121-104 win Saturday night after receiving two pairs of double technicals for repeatedly jawing at each other.

The initial set of double technicals came with five minutes left in regulation and the Warriors firmly in control. Durant and Beverley, who exchanged words throughout the game, were each given a technical as the officials tried to make sure the situation between the two didn’t escalate. Beverley, who has made a career out of getting underneath opponents’ skin, mocked Durant’s body movements earlier in the game after being called for a foul on him. At that point, Durant laughed off the exchange.

But tempers flared again in the fourth quarter when Beverley had the ball and Durant tried to strip him.

With 4:41 remaining, Durant and Beverley got tangled up after Durant’s strip and exchanged more words. Referee Ed Malloy quickly ejected both players as a smile crossed Durant’s face. The crowd at a sold-out Oracle Arena chanted, “Warrrrriors!” as Durant and Beverley went to their respective locker rooms.

After the game, Warriors coach Steve Kerr said what frustrated him the most was the fact that Durant has to be more cautious about picking up technicals in the coming weeks because of the potential suspension looming once a player reaches seven in the postseason.

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