Monty Williams Fined $25k for Criticizing NBA’s Concussion Policy


The NBA docked $25,000 from New Orleans Hornets head coach Monty Williams, after he went public with his absurdly silly complaints regarding the League’s newly-instituted concussion policy. Per the Times-Picayune: “Williams made the comments when asked about Hornets forward Anthony Davis, who was injured last Friday night when he was hit in the heat with an elbow from teammate Austin Rivers. ‘The better he feels in the next couple of days, it helps the situation,’ Williams said. ‘But when you’re dealing with the brain, I guess what’s happening in football it’s impacted everybody. So he got touched up a little bit last night and I’m sure that happens a lot in basketball. It’s just that now you treat everybody like they have on white gloves and pink drawers. It’s just getting old, but it’s just the way the league is now.’ […] Before Davis is cleared, the Hornets will have to consult with a neurologist hired by the NBA. Davis could miss several games before he returns because of the league’s extensive concussion protocol procedures. As of Tuesday Davis hasn’t been cleared to play. The Hornets take on the Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday night at the New Orleans Arena. On Saturday Williams said he’s not against the league’s concussion policy, but thinks players should have more say so on how they feel. ‘I’m not saying I don’t like it; we’ve got to protect our players,’ Williams said. ‘I’m sure I had four or five concussions. When I played it didn’t bother me. The NBA is doing what’s necessary to protect the players but this is not the NFL. You don’t get hit in the head that much. I understand it, but as a coach I’m a baby about it. I want my guys ready to play.'”