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INDIANAPOLIS, IN - APRIL 20: Monta Ellis #11 of the Indiana Pacers reacts against the Cleveland Cavaliers in game three of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals during the 2017 NBA Playoffs at Bankers Life Fieldhouse on April 20, 2017 in Indianapolis, Indiana. The Cavaliers defeated the Pacers 119-114 to take a 3-0 lead in the series. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using the photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)Joe Robbins/Getty Images

Monta Ellis, Reggie Bullock Suspended 5 Games for Violating Drug Policy

Alec NathanJun 16, 2017

Indiana Pacers guard Monta Ellis and Detroit Pistons swingman Reggie Bullock were each suspended five games on Friday for violating the NBA's anti-drug policy, according to USA Today's Jeff Zillgitt.

"Monta's suspension is a very serious matter to our franchise and it will be dealt with accordingly," Pacers president of basketball operations Kevin Pritchard said in a statement.

The failed drug test represents another knock for Ellis, 31, who took a step back throughout the 2016-17 season.

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Over the course of 74 regular-season appearances, Ellis averaged 8.5 points in 27.0 minutes per game. Both of those marks represented the lowest since his rookie season (2005-06).

Bullock, meanwhile, averaged a career-high 4.5 points in 15.1 minutes per game during his second year with the Pistons.

However, Bullock's future with the team is uncertain entering the offseason, since the Pistons can decline his $3.3 million qualifying offer for the 2017-18 campaign and make him an unrestricted free agent.

Should Detroit choose to tender the qualifying offer, Bullock will become a restricted free agent and the Pistons will retain the right to match offer any offer sheet he receives.