Opinion: Darren Collison Faces Lengthy Domestic Violence Suspension

Darren Collison pled guilty to domestic violence and now faces an inevitable suspension from the NBA. This article examines how long that suspension might be.

On September 2nd, 2016, Darren Collison pled guilty to one count of misdemeanor domestic violence. You can read more about that here. This is the NBA’s first crack with their new enhanced domestic violence policy. Let us dive into what the other major professional sports leagues are handing down to get an idea of what Mister Collison’s punishment might be.

NFL’s Policy

In 2014, the NFL implemented a new personal conduct policy that includes domestic violence. The policy implements a six-game suspension on the first offense. More on the policy can be read here. Six games may sound insignificant for committing such a horrible crime, but when you frame it with the NFL’s current 16 game schedule it is more punitive. A player is suspended for 37.5% of the regular season and banned for life for a second offense.

MLB’s Policy

The MLB implemented their domestic violence policy in 2015. You can read more about it here, but in their policy, no maximum or minimum penalties are stated. They go on a case by case basis. Atlanta Braves (now former) outfielder Hector Olivera was suspended 82 games for violating the MLB’s policy earlier this year. That is just over 50% of the MLB’s regular season. Two other players were punished this season under the policy. Jose Reyes received a 51 game suspension and Aroldis Chapman received a 30 game punishment. A 30 game suspension is just over 18.5% of the MLB regular season.

NHL’s Policy

The NHL has yet to adapt the tough stance that other major professional sports leagues have. This season, they mandated domestic violence and sexual assault training according to the Associated Press. Hopefully, the NHL will adopt a new strict domestic violence policy in their near future.

Darren Collison’s Suspension

So what happens with Mister Collison?

This is the NBA’s chance to set a precedent on domestic violence and I do not expect them to let the opportunity slip by. Mister Collison pled guilty in the courtroom, so he cannot deny the charges to the league. I believe the NBA will shoot for at least a 20 game suspension, which would be just under 25% of the season. The league may even shoot for 41 games equalling the MLB’s lengthy suspension to date. The Kings better start making contingency plans because they are going to be without Collison for a good portion of the season.

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