BREAKING: The NBA has fined the Los Angeles Lakers $100,000 for violating the player participation policy…

BREAKING: The NBA has fined the Los Angeles Lakers $100,000 for violating the player participation policy.

— The NBA announced today that it has fined the Los Angeles Lakers $100,000 for violating the league’s player participation policy.

According to a statement released by the league office, the Lakers failed to comply with regulations designed to promote player availability and ensure fairness to fans and competition integrity.

The violation reportedly occurred when the Lakers rested multiple key players during a recent nationally televised game without providing sufficient medical justification.

The NBA’s player participation policy, updated before the 2024–25 season, aims to discourage teams from resting healthy star players, particularly in high-profile matchups.

“The Lakers’ actions were inconsistent with the letter and spirit of the player participation guidelines,” the NBA said in its announcement. “Teams must adhere to these standards to uphold the value of our games for fans and partners alike.”

This is not the first time the Lakers have drawn scrutiny over resting decisions, though it is one of the more significant fines under the newer enforcement measures. Lakers management has not yet publicly commented on the penalty.

The fine serves as a reminder that the league is serious about holding teams accountable for maintaining competitive integrity and maximizing player participation, especially during marquee games.