The NBA Needs To Change

Image from Thunderous Intentions

___________________________

AJ Slusarczyk

The Thanksgiving morning news surrounding the star point guard of the Oklahoma City Thunder, Josh Giddey, has jeopardized his very promising career. Serious allegations of romantic involvement with an underaged girl have surfaced on social media and are unequivocally unjustifiable. Preseason predictions of Giddey had him in contention for the Most Improved Player award. Though, through the 15 games he’s played in so far, he has not been impressive by any standard. In fact, he has seemed to have taken a step backwards from where he left off last season. These on and off-court controversies have sparked discussions around the league about the future of Josh Giddey with the Thunder and in the NBA as a whole.

In assessing the situation, it becomes apparent that the severity of allegations that Giddey faces demands a thorough response. In the past, the NBA has shown to be lenient when it comes to players that have faced disturbing accusations. We saw this just last season when Miles Bridges faced a 30 game suspension before further being released by the Hornets for potential domestic violence. Also last season, Joshua Primo was “left off the hook”, facing only a four game suspension for exposing himself to a Spurs trainer.

With the NBA not taking correct action against these athletes, it places the responsibility on the front offices to take decisive action. The consequences the player faces should by no means be taken lightly. Whether that means a suspension or perhaps cutting ties with the player, the league should not be afraid to take correct action.