TORONTO — The Toronto Raptors suspended point guard Rafer Alston for two games on Sunday for his conduct at practice a day before.
Alston won't be paid and will not be allowed to practice until Thursday. Toronto coach Sam Mitchell wouldn't say what Alston did but said he needs to rein in his emotions.
"It would be helpful for him as far as furthering his career," Mitchell said. "His passion is his strength, but sometimes it can be a weakness. You got to control your emotions."
Alston missed Sunday's game against Phoenix and will miss Wednesday's game at Indiana. Milt Palacio started in Alston's place against the Suns.
This isn't the first time Alston has been in trouble with the team. During a loss to Boston on Dec. 3, Mitchell told Alston to get off his bench after he received a technical foul. Mitchell benched him for the rest of the game and the next game. Alston was so upset, he threatened to leave the team and quit the NBA altogether before later backtracking.
Alston signed a six-year contract worth between $27 million and $30 million this past summer.
Mitchell thinks his point guard shoots too much. The Raptors are 1-8 when Alston scores 20 or more points.
"I've spoken to him about it. Our point guard has to lead us in assists. I don't think a point guard on our team needs to lead us in scoring and in field goal attempts," Mitchell said. "That has been a concern, especially since his field goal percentage is 38 percent. It's not where you want it to be."