Howard fined for criticizing officials

NEW YORK, April 28 (UPI) -- The National Basketball Association announced Wednesday Orlando center Dwight Howard has been fined $35,000 for criticizing officials.

It was the second time this season Howard has been fined for such complaints.

Howard made his comments Tuesday on his Web site, the day after the Magic finished off a four-game sweep of Charlotte in the opening round of the playoffs.

He fouled out of the final two games of the series and committed five fouls in the other two contests.

"I'm not looking to say anything to get myself in trouble with the league, but I just don't see other star players getting called for fouls the way I get them," Howard said.

Howard scored 9.8 points per game in the series, barely half his regular-season average.

Orlando Coach Stan Van Gundy and forward Matt Barnes were also fined $35,000 each for critical remarks toward the officials during the series.