The Embiid-Claxton incident occurred early in the game, potentially fueled by Claxton's emotions as the Nets had home-court advantage. Claxton knocked Embiid down after finishing an alley-oop pass.
In the heat of the moment, Claxton made the decision to step over Embiid who was on the ground, which angered the seven-foot center.
Charles Barkley and Shaquille O'Neal Call Out Embiid's Hypocrisy.
Charles Barkley and Shaquille O'Neal criticized the NBA's inconsistency with flagrant fouls after Joel Embiid's violent behavior, calling for fair application of the rules.
Charles Barkley and Shaquille O’Neal demanded justice
Charles Barkley believes that Joel Embiid's kick to Claxton's crotch was worse than Draymond Green's, and Inside the NBA hosts question why the punishment was different. Charles Barkley said, “I think his was worse than Draymond’s, to be honest with you. Because he tried to kick a guy in his junk. I mean, you know what he was trying to do.”
Shaq joined the discussion, questioning the consistency in enforcing the rules. Barkley argued that Embiid should have been ejected for kicking Claxton.
Shaq said, “Whatever the law is, we go by the law. So, if one guy gets to spend another game, I’m not saying kick the man. I’m just saying like that’s supposed to be the law.”