Ron Artest was suspended one game by the NBA today for cracking backup guard J.J Barea of the Dallas Mavericks in the face in the final minute of Game 2 on Wednesday night. Artest will sit out of Game 3 on Friday at Dallas and will regain his eligibility for Game 4 on Sunday. The Lakers trail in the best-of-7 series 2-0. Asked for his reaction, Artest said, “No reaction. I’m getting ready to move forward and play basketball.” Asked if the suspension was justified, he said, “I’m just ready to move forward and play basketball.”

Artest used the phrase “moving on” eight times in a 2 1/2-minute session with reporters.