Kevin Love: Minnesota Timberwolves Forward Suspended Two Games

Whether you agree with the punishment or not, it's been carried out: Kevin Love received a two-game suspension as a consequence of stepping on Houston's Luis Scola during Saturday's game at the Target Center.

With 8:34 remaining in the third quarter, Love stepped directly on Scola while Scola was lying on the ground. Whether or not it was intentional can be debated, but it certainly appeared as if Love made a dirty play in the heat of the game.

Love claimed the play was unintentional and apologized to Scola after the game. Some speculate that the play could have been retaliation for a pass made by Scola that hit Love in the groin during the teams' previous face off.

Following the announcement of his suspension, Love issued the following apology:

"

I want to publicly apologize to Luis Scola and the Houston Rockets. My intention is to never hurt another player on the basketball court. I’ve always had the utmost respect for the game of basketball and all of my opponents. I also apologize to my coaches, teammates and our fans for the consequences of my actions.

"

The penalty will keep the All-Star sidelined for the Timberwolves' games against Sacramento on Tuesday evening and Memphis on Wednesday.