The NBAannounced on Wednesday that Cleveland Cavaliers star point guard Isaiah Thomas has been fined $20,000 for his hit on Andrew Wiggins during Monday's game against the Minnesota Timberwolves.Â
Following an officials review, Thomas was given a flagrant 2 foul and subsequently ejected from the contest. "I've gotten numerous steals like that, going out like that," Thomas said, per ESPN. "It just happened I hit him in the throat. I apologized right away because I didn't mean to do that. I'm just glad he's all right." Wiggins accepted IT's apology.Â
Even though Thomas defended his actions, he understand the referees' decision to toss him from the game. "I was surprised because I went for the ball," he said. "But I know anything around the head is really ... especially if it looks bad, you're going to probably be thrown out. I just made sure he was good, made sure he knew I had no intention of trying to hurt him or hit him in the throat."Â
Monday's 127-99 loss to the Timberwolves was a forgettable night for a Cavaliers team that struggled to get anything going on the offensive side of the ball. J.R Smith shot 0-for-7, Kevin Love was 1-for-7, and IT was 3-for-11. With a 26-14 record, the Cavs can afford to take their lumps now as they have their sights firmly placed on cruising their way to the playoffs and making their ultimate push for another Finals appearance.Â
