LaMelo Ball should have been ejected for tripping Bam Adebayo, Heat coach says

Key Points:

• Miami Heat coach Erik Spoelstra criticized LaMelo Ball for tripping Bam Adebayo during Tuesday's play-in loss to the Charlotte Hornets, stating Ball should have been ejected for the dangerous play that injured Adebayo's lower back.
• Ball appeared to grab Adebayo's leg after missing a shot early in the second quarter, causing Adebayo to fall and eventually leave the game; however, no foul was called during the play, and Ball remained in the game.
• Ball apologized for the incident, explaining he was disoriented after being hit in the head and was unsure if the leg grab was intentional; officials did not review the play during the game due to timing rules but indicated the league would review it afterward.
• The injury to Adebayo, Miami's star center, impacted the Heat's performance in overtime, though Miami had opportunities to win, including missed shots by Tyler Herro; the Hornets ultimately won 127-126, ending Miami’s season.
• Officials and players described the game as highly physical; referee Zach Zarba noted the review window for the incident had closed during the game, and league operations will decide on any further disciplinary action against Ball.