The Pool Report interview was conducted by Will Guillory (The Athletic) with Crew Chief Curtis Blair following tonight’s Heat at Pelicans Game.

Feb. 23, 2024

QUESTION: What went into the decision to eject Jimmy Butler, Thomas Bryant, Jose Alvarado and Naji Marshall?

BLAIR: Butler and Marshall engaged in physical contact which escalates the altercation.  Alvarado and Bryant engaged in a physical altercation that continued the altercation.

QUESTION: Was it determined that Bryant and Alvarado left their respective benches during the altercation?

BLAIR: We did not see them leave, but it is not our decision.  It is up to the league office to determine if they left their respective benches.

QUESTION: Why did you decide the foul against Kevin Love that led to the altercation was only a common foul?

BLAIR: The foul by Kevin Love did not meet the criteria for a Flagrant Foul 1 – there was no wind up, impact or follow-through.