Kidd avoids suspension for flagrant foul

By Chris Mannix, SI.com

Mavericks point guard Jason Kidd won't be suspended for committing a flagrant foul that led to his ejection in the fourth quarter of Game 4 on Sunday.

An NBA official said Kidd would be available to play Tuesday when the Mavs, trailing 3-1 in the first-round series, try to avoid elimination in New Orleans.

Kidd was given a flagrant 2 for his foul on Hornets guard Jannero Pargo, a ruling that results in an immediate ejection. The NBA can review such a play to determine whether a suspension is warranted.

"I just tried to foul Pargo," Kidd said after the game. "I wasn't trying to hurt him and they called a flagrant 2. ... I was just trying to stop him from getting an easy layup."

Pargo was driving to the basket on a fast break when Kidd fouled the New Orleans reserve with 7:16 left. Pargo hit the floor hard and the foul was called.

The three officials reviewed the play and upheld the ruling.

"It was a hard foul," Pargo said. "The only thing he did was make a hard foul and not give up a layup. That's what he's supposed to do. I was a little surprised [Kidd was ejected]."

The Associated Press contributed to this report.