From pretty much the moment it happened, Zaza Pachulia's close-out that led to Kawhi Leonard spraining his ankle after landing on the big man's foot, has been the main topic of discussion in the basketball world. Both Leonard and Pachulia have said they don't think it was a dirty play, while Spurs coach Gregg Popovich has strongly suggested the opposite.
While there are many people who agree with Popovich, and would likely believe Pachulia should face some sort of consequence for the play, it does not appear he'll face any sort of punishment. According to a report from Marc Stein, "no further action from the NBA is expected."
Despite Gregg Popovich's pointed criticisms, no further action from the NBA is expected with regard to Zaza Pachulia, league sources say
— Marc Stein (@ESPNSteinLine) May 15, 2017
This report from Stein will only add fuel to the fire on this debate, as it now appears that Pachulia will be playing in Game 2 on Tuesday night, while Leonard likely will not. Which -- regardless of where you fall on the argument about whether or not the play was dirty -- really doesn't seem fair.