A stinging punishment for convicted Hornet

The Story

NBA suspends Charlotte Hornets forward Jeff Taylor for 24 games after domestic abuse conviction.

The Facts

– Last month, Taylor pled guilty after an incident in Michigan where he reportedly shoved a lady friend into a door and grabbed her by the arm. He then punched a hole in a hotel wall. He got 18 months probation.

– Now, the NBA is suspending Taylor, a move that will cost the player $268,000 in lost salary. Because he’s been sitting out a while anyhow, Taylor could actually get to play again as soon as Dec. 17.

The Quote

“This suspension is necessary to protect the interests of the NBA and the public’s confidence in it.” — NBA Commissioner Adam Silver.

c5’s Take

24 games suspended is a steep punishment, the NBA admits. But these days if pro leagues want to retain a mainstream audience and female fans, the mantra must be to act swiftly and strongly. This move may not bode well for Panthers defensive end Greg Hardy, also up on assault on a female charges.

Photo: Jeff Willhelm / Charlotte Observer

This story was originally published November 21, 2014 at 3:42 PM with the headline "A stinging punishment for convicted Hornet."