Wizards Harrell and Caldwell-Pope Throw Punches At Halftime

 

Washinton Wizards' forwards Montrezl Harrell and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope got into a scrap at halftime Tuesday night, according to Shams Charania of The Athletic, with teammates having to step in to break it up. The incident that led to the dust-up came moments before the half, when KCP chose to heave up a court-length shot rather than pass to a wide open Harrell. The play in question can be seen here:

This appears to be the end of 1st half play that led to an apparent halftime altercation between Montrezl Harrell and KCP, as reported by @ShamsCharania. You can see Harrell and KCP start talking on their way to the locker room. pic.twitter.com/hoXaHMecMF

— Chase Hughes (@ChaseHughesNBCS) January 12, 2022

With about 3 seconds left in the half, KCP grabs a loose ball and instead of spotting the wide open Harrell downcourt, he takes three dribbles and long strides before heaving up the shot from midcourt. Harrell walks off the court in disgust without even waiting to see the results of the shot (it missed). The two can be seen starting to discuss the play as they head into the tunnel.

The "discussion" became heated during the walk to the locker room, and each actually took a swing at the other (not connecting), before teammates stepped in. 

The two played the 2nd half without incident, and in fact KCP hit the game-winning three in the last minute. 

Both players arrived in Washington this season from the Los Angeles Lakers, as part of the trade that sent Russell Westbrook to LA. 

The lesson here, though, is simple: If Montrezl Harrell is open, get him the rock. 

Photo Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports