It happened just before halftime in the game between Detroit Pistons and Orlando Magic. After a breakout from Hayes, the American Frenchman was pushed into the seats by his German colleague Moritz Wagner from Orlando.
Hayes jumped up in anger and hit Wagner hard on the back of the head. The latter apparently lost consciousness, after which total chaos broke loose. Hamidou Diallo of the Pistons had meanwhile rushed to the rescue and also joined the discussion, as did several other colleagues.
A day later, the NBA handed out penalties to the players involved. As many as eleven players have been suspended. Hayes has to be sidelined for three games, Wagner for two games.
Diallo receives a game suspension, as do eight Orlando players, who are penalized for leaving their bench during the game. These include Cole Anthony, RJ Hampton, Gary Harris, Kevon Harris, Admiral Schofield, Franz Wagner, Mo Bamba and Wendell Carter Jr.
Hayes will miss Detroit’s games against Chicago (Friday), Minnesota (Saturday) and Portland (Monday). He also does not receive any salary during that period.
The suspensions at Orlando will be staggered so that the Florida team can field at least a full team in the coming games.
Bamba, Hampton and Gary Harris will be sidelined against Washington on Friday. Kevon Harris, Schofield and Franz Wagner will not be there on January 4 against Oklahoma City.
