Monta Ellis Suspended for 30 Games
Golden State Executives Resent Lie, Guard Might Appeal
Golden State president Robert Rowell made the announcement days ago, with the regular season right around the corner. The suspension is a direct response to Ellis' ankle injury and subsequent admission that he initially lied about its origin — a moped accident.
The team is asking for $3 million, in addition to Ellis missing more than one-third of the season.
Ellis, 22, first told the team he hurt the ankle while working out in Jackson, Miss. However, officials began questioning that explanation once they saw how badly the player sprained it. That breach of contract, combined with Ellis' dishonesty, influenced the decision by Rowell and owner Chris Cohan.
"(General manager) Chris Mullin made it perfectly clear to both Mr. Cohan and myself that he didn't think this was a big deal at the beginning, and we happen to think it's a very big deal," Rowell told The Associated Press. "We happen to think that it's a big deal for our fans, it's a big deal for our season ticket-holders, it's a big deal for our business partners, it's a big deal for the Warriors organization."
The team has indicated that it might even void the six-year, $66 million deal Ellis signed in July. According to The Sacramento Bee, the owners would only do that if Ellis struggles with his rehabilitation or cannot return to form once he's back. It's doubtful the team would let him walk so easily, but the claim might be a good motivator for the youngster.
Monta and Agent Might Appeal Suspension
If Ellis understands that he violated a section of the league's uniform player contract, his agent, Jeff Fried, has failed to make that known to the public. Fried didn't exactly say an appeal was forthcoming, but the agent spoke in a manner that left little doubt.
"We've previously evaluated Monta's options, and now that the team has taken a definitive position we will move aggressively in protecting Monta's rights," Fried said during an interview with USA Today. "While Monta acknowledges his mistake in judgment, we certainly want to ensure that the Warriors' actions are not divisive to the team or potentially vindictive in nature."
Fried didn't spell out any reasons he or his client might have to believe the team's decision was foul. Either way, the duo might be fighting an uphill battle if they try to combat the actions of an organization that gave Ellis such a hefty contract extension just weeks before the moped incident.
Ellis' Injury Hurts Team
For Ellis, the $3 million will hurt, but the off-the-court time should mirror the estimated return date doctors targeted when he first crippled his ankle. However, his absence might cause a slow start for the NBA's highest scoring team last year.
Nothing will come easy in the loaded Western Conference, especially when a team is missing a key cog like Ellis. He was supposed to replace Baron Davis at point guard to lead a high-paced offense with efficient wings and big men who can run the floor. Instead, coach Don Nelson will likely try his luck with the unproven Marcus Williams, a newcomer who played in New Jersey the last two season.
Since teams like the Los Angeles Lakers, New Orleans Hornets, Utah Jazz and San Antonio Spurs are sure to be among the top seeds, the Warriors would have had to scrap to make the playoffs had they been at full strength. Now, they must find a way to clamp down on defense and rely on Stephen Jackson and Corey Maggette to remain consistent scorers until their floor general returns in December.
Golden State Warriors Guard Monta Ellis
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