Jackson answers Stern

OKLAHOMA CITY -- Lakers coach Phil Jackson said today that NBA commissioner David Stern was being too heavy handed when it came to threatening suspensions to players and coaches for criticizing referees. Jackson has been fined $35,000 twice already this month for comments about the officiating and he might be dinged again. Stern said Thursday such public criticism is "corrosive" Stern also said, "So our coaches should be quiet because this is a good business that makes them good livings and supports a lot of families. If they don't like it, they should go get a job someplace else."

Jackson responded: "When you start throwing one- and two-game suspensions in the threats, I think that means a lot to the ballclubs and to the coaches. That seems awful heavy handed to me, but David is one who isn't shy. There's a certain gamesmanship that he feels cheapens the game."