One of the more controversial rules in NBA history is the fact that players are not allowed to leave the bench during a fight or scuffle on the court. Throughout the years, numerous players have been suspended for doing so.
On Sunday afternoon, Denver Nuggets star Michael Porter Jr. broke that rule as he ran into the paint as his team was in a giant scuffle against the Clippers.
Michael Porter Jr. clearly leaves Denver’s bench and is grabbed by a coach before the officials noticed.
Surprised this wasn’t seen on the review. https://t.co/tzQoVDAFi5
— Joey Linn (@joeylinn_) April 26, 2025
After the game, Porter spoke about breaking the rule, which he surprisingly didn’t even know about.
“Sorry. I didn’t know the specific rule. I’m glad I didn’t make it very far,” Porter Jr. said. “To see my guys get in it like that, I’m just glad I didn’t make it very far. The coaches and my teammates were aware. Because I wasn’t fully aware of any type of rule, but I’m very thankful that I did not get tossed from this game or anything like that. Definitely a learning experience for sure.”
Michael Porter Jr. on leaving the bench during the Clippers-Nuggets scuffle:
“Sorry. I didn’t know the specific rule. I’m glad I didn’t make it very far… To see my guys get in it like that, I’m just glad I didn’t make it very far. The coaches and my teammates were aware.… pic.twitter.com/gXaklGQqf6
— Joey Linn (@joeylinn_) April 27, 2025
Even though Porter Jr. “didn’t make it very far,” the rules dictate that he should be suspended for one game regardless. However, with the way things are looking, he’ll likely avoid any punishment. Porter Jr. has already been listed as probable against the LA Clippers for Game 5 on Tuesday.
I’m good with MPJ or anyone else who didn’t escalate a “fight” NOT being suspended for leaving the bench. We don’t need a series tainted because of something like this. Just amend the rule though if you aren’t going to enforce it because it’s confusing and inconsistent. pic.twitter.com/kNsgVpbbWN
— Adam Auslund (@followAdamA) April 29, 2025
Whether or not Michael Porter Jr. plays on Tuesday night, the LA Clippers need to handle business against the Denver Nuggets. LA is the healthier team and needs to take advantage of it.
The LA Clippers face off against the Denver Nuggets in Game 5 on Tuesday at 10:00 p.m. EST.
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