Richard4444 wrote:Maybe, Stewart's reaction was the best reaction he could have although it is obviously wrong.
1) He made quite a spectacle. He showed how strong and hot-head he can be. He sold the image that he is tough and unpredictable. He probably scared LeBron a bit. He made a name for himself and he will be known worldwide among casual NBA fans as the man who scared LeBron. And he did not hurt anyone in the process.
2) The options to respond to aggression are awful. You always will be criticized, especially if you are a physically imposing player who should defend your weaker teammates.
If he stays quiet or lets himself be held by only 3 or 4 securities, he would be called a fake tough guy and would be accused of being afraid of LeBron.
If he actually hits LeBron, he would get a great suspension (it would hurt his rhythm and development) and would be viewed as an enemy of the league.
3) He got a small suspension. But it would not hurt the Pistons that want to tank. And these 2 game suspensions will not hurt his development. It will only give him a rest for some days.
Being crazy surely didn't hurt Artest's career. He still went overboard. When he walked away he needed to walk away. He had already made his point. Your point is valid though, he now has a reputation without a doubt. Lambieer, Rodman and Big Ben all flowing through his veins