Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James has been suspended one game for “recklessly hitting” Detroit Pistons center Isaiah Stewart in the face during their altercation in Sunday’s game, the NBA announced on Monday.
Stewart has been suspended two games for “escalating an on-court altercation by repeatedly and aggressively pursuing” James.
The hit occurred while both players were jostling for rebounding position early in the third quarter. It led to a stoppage in action while Stewart, with blood streaming down his face, had to be held back multiple times by Detroit personnel as he tried to confront James.
Stewart was initially whistled for a loose ball foul on the play. Following an official review, James was assessed a flagrant foul 2 and ejected while Stewart was assessed two technical fouls and ejected.
James will serve his suspension on Tuesday when the Lakers visit the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden.
Stewart will miss Detroit’s games against the Miami Heat on Tuesday and the Milwaukee Bucks on Wednesday.
