By james art Controversial former basketball player turned podcaster Gilbert Arenas surprised everyone when he joined the voices of those who called the winning coach of the Boston Celtics, Joe Mazzula. He expressed his displeasure with a comment attributed to the coach on a recent episode of his Gil’s Arena podcast.
Boston Celtics coach Joe Mazzula has proposed a sweeping rule change to allow fistfights in the NBA, sparking debate. However, Gilbert Arenas strongly disagreed with the proposal as he highlighted several concerns, including a strength imbalance between players that could potentially lead to severe injuries.
Does anyone on his team think that if Isaiah Stewart is allowed to punch one of them in the face, does he think one of them won’t break their face or jaw? Which of his players does he think will stand a chance against someone like him [Isaiah Stewart]someone like draymond green if they really threw a punch and connected?
said Gilbert Arenas on Gil’s Arena Show
“Which of [Mazzulla’s] players, does he think they’ll have a chance against someone like Draymond Green if they really hit and connect?”
Gil Arenas blasted Joe Mazzula for wanting to bring fighting back to the NBA. pic.twitter.com/twqLOUK6zh
— Gilbert Arenas (@GilsArenaShow) October 30, 2024
Reference to Agent Zero Draymond Green as a player who is known for his violent tendencies from time to time. Like his suffocation by the Minnesota Timberwolves last season Rudy Gober.
Arenas jokingly suggested the trainers fight instead and then pitted Matsula against him Darwin Hamm. And while Mazzulla’s proposal seems unlikely to be implemented, Arenas’ criticism resonated with many fans and pundits.
Chris Russo criticizes Joe Mazzula’s proposal for NBA fights
Gilbert Arenas wasn’t the only one breathing down Coach Mazzula’s neck. He was joined by ESPN Chris Russowho strongly disagreed with his ideas as he cited the infamous 1977 incident that involved Rudi Tomjanovic and Kermit Washington.
Joe has to pick up the phone and call Rudy Tomjanovich, who was nearly killed by Kermit Washington. She should call him and ask him about the fights.
Chris Russo said on ESPN’s First Take
What Rousseau was referring to happened on December 9, 1977, when Tomjanovic suffered a near-fatal blow from Washington that dislocated his skull and caused him to leak cerebrospinal fluid. This incident led to tougher penalties for fighting in the NBA.
Russo also argued that Mazzula’s proposal would be a disaster because it prioritizes player safety over soundness. The NBA’s crackdown on fighting has intensified over the years, but some argue the league has gone too soft.