Stern Defends His Decision to Fine the Lakers $25,000

NBA Commissioner David Stern used a baseball analogy Wednesday to defend his $25,000 fine of the Lakers for failing to use two regulars in their final regular-season game Sunday at Portland.

“We have to call balls and strikes,” Stern said. “The Lakers’ action was clearly wide of the plate.”

Stern said fans buying tickets deserve the best product and that the Lakers did not supply that.

With Magic Johnson and James Worthy on the bench, Portland defeated the Lakers, 130-88. The game did not affect the final standings or playoff situation of either team.

Baseball Commissioner Fay Vincent endorsed Stern’s action. “We believe strongly that teams must make significant effort. . . . I think David did the right thing,” he said.