New York, NY (My Sportsbook) - The NBA announced Friday that Denver Nuggets guard J.R. Smith has been suspended without pay for seven games. The suspension comes after Smith pled guilty to reckless driving in a 2007 accident resulting in the death of a passenger in Smith's car, Andre Bell. He was also suspended for two games at the start of the 2007-08 season due to the crash. The NBA's release also cited "prior and subsequent motor vehicle offenses" as reasons for the suspension. "The commissioner's office has made it clear that it wants to set the highest standard of personal conduct for its athletes. We will support J.R. as he continues to deal with the tragic accident he was involved with two years ago and the consequences of his painful mistake. Being that this is strictly a league decision, we will have no further comment," said Nuggets vice president of basketball operations Mark Warkentien. In late June, Smith was sentenced to 90 days in jail after pleading guilty to reckless driving. However, the Denver Post reported on July 31 that Smith was released on July 24 -- six days earlier than expected. The paper reported that 60 days of his original sentence was suspended as long as he performed 500 hours of community service. In 81 games (18 starts) for Denver last season, the 6-foot-6 guard averaged 15.2 points and 3.7 rebounds. The suspension will commence with the first game of the 2009-10 NBA regular season for which Smith is eligible and physically able to play. |
