Attention Josh Smith

Perhaps finally forswearing the jump shot isn't the greatest adjustment Josh Smith will have to make this season. As Henry Abbott reports, the NBA has expanded (and/or better defined) what constitutes cause to assess a technical foul. I direct both the reader and Mr. Smith's attention to the second bullet point in particular:

Referees have been instructed to call a technical for:

• Players making aggressive gestures, such as air punches, anywhere on the court.

• Demonstrative disagreement, such as when a player incredulously raises his hands, or smacks his own arm to demonstrate how he was fouled.

• Running directly at an official to complain about a call.

• Excessive inquiries about a call, even in a civilized tone.

In addition, referees have been instructed to consider calling technicals on players who use body language to question or demonstrate displeasure, or say things like, "Come on!" They can also consider technicals for players who "take the long path to the official", walking across the court to make their case.