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[Saba Sports News] Denver Nuggets’ head coach Michael Malone was ejected during Thursday’s game against the Los Angeles Clippers, following a vehement dispute over a non-call he deemed obvious. The incident occurred in the third quarter at Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles, when Malone protested a missed foul involving a play where Ivica Zubac of the Clippers interfered with Michael Porter Jr.’s three-point shot, encroaching on his landing space without any foul being called.
Malone, clearly agitated, confronted the officials during the subsequent timeout, reportedly using explicit language towards referee Aaron Smith. This led to Malone receiving two technical fouls in quick succession, resulting in his ejection from the game.
Despite Malone’s absence, the game was closely contested, but the Nuggets ultimately fell to the Clippers 102-100, even without Kawhi Leonard playing for Los Angeles. Nikola Jokic of the Nuggets showcased a stellar performance, leading all players with a triple-double consisting of 36 points, 17 rebounds, and 10 assists, while Paul George led the Clippers with 28 points.