Indiana Pacers coach Rick Carlisle has urged the NBA to examine a play in which Boston Celtics center Neemias Queta elbowed Pacers forward Isaiah Jackson twice, forcing him out of Monday night’s game with a concussion. Carlisle described the incident as dangerous and non-accidental, highlighting concerns over player safety.
The incident occurred with approximately 4 minutes and 30 seconds remaining in the first quarter of the Pacers’ 103-95 loss to the Celtics. Jackson, who came off the bench, was elbowed by Queta in quick succession, leading to immediate concern on the court. He was subsequently removed for concussion protocol evaluation and did not return to the game, playing only two minutes in total.
Carlisle expressed frustration after the game, stating that the play should have been reviewed in real time by officials. ‘I hope the league looks at that,’ he said, emphasizing the severity of the injury and the need for such actions to be addressed to prevent future harm. The coach’s comments underscore a growing focus on protecting players from dangerous plays in the NBA.
Isaiah Jackson has been a key reserve for the Pacers this season, averaging 7.6 points and 6.1 rebounds in 18.8 minutes per game over 28 appearances. His absence could impact the team’s depth, especially as they navigate a competitive Eastern Conference. Carlisle noted that Jackson’s condition is ‘pretty serious,’ though the exact timeline for his return remains uncertain.
The game itself saw the Pacers struggle offensively, with the Celtics maintaining control throughout. The loss drops Indiana’s record, adding pressure as they aim for playoff positioning. Carlisle’s call for a review reflects not only concern for his player but also a broader advocacy for consistent officiating and safety standards in the league.
Neemias Queta, the Celtics center involved, has not publicly commented on the incident. The NBA typically reviews such plays for potential disciplinary action, which could include fines or suspensions if deemed excessive. This process is part of the league’s efforts to enforce rules against flagrant fouls and protect player welfare.
Looking ahead, the Pacers will need to adjust their rotation if Jackson is sidelined for an extended period. The team’s medical staff will continue to monitor his recovery, while the league’s response to Carlisle’s request could set a precedent for how similar incidents are handled in future games. The outcome of this review may influence coaching strategies and player conduct across the NBA.
In conclusion, this event highlights ongoing challenges in basketball regarding injury prevention and officiating accuracy. As the Pacers await the NBA’s decision, the focus remains on Jackson’s health and the implications for both teams involved in this contentious matchup.
