Some call it gamesmanship. Others call it a disgrace. Players have been embellishing contact in an attempt to get whistles since the NBA was first founded, but many are of the opinion the situation is beginning to spiral out of control. A few days ago, Pacers coach Frank Vogel said the Miami Heat were among the league’s worst offenders, and over the weekend Zach Randolph accused Chris Paul of bringing the mentality to the Los Angeles Clippers when he was traded.
Today, NBA commissioner David Stern finally weighed in, and shockingly, he actually agrees with the basic tenants of Randolph and Vogel’s arguments. He stopped short of pointing the finger at either the Heat or the Clippers, but the executive did admit he wants the competition committee to take a long look at figuring out ways to curb the behavior.
"I think it's time to look at (flopping) in a more serious way because it's only designed to fool the referee. It's not a legitimate play in my judgment. I recognize if there's contact (you) move a little bit, but some of this is acting. We should give out Oscars rather than MVP trophies."
According to ESPN, Stern tried to push the issue once before by recommending fines and suspensions be doled out for players caught repeatedly embellishing, but apparently, his words fell on deaf ears. With the increased attention now however, the commissioner might find a much more receptive audience.
I must admit I am personally bothered by players diving. Even if it’s guys on the team I’m rooting for, I sort of find it distasteful and cowardly. That’s just me though. A whole lot of people out there think players should do anything in their power to give their teams a few extra possessions.
What do you think? Do NBA players flop too much? Let us know your thoughts by voting in the poll below…
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