Lakers' World Peace banned one game for striking opponent

(Reuters) - Los Angeles Lakers forward Metta World Peace has been suspended one game for grabbing an opponent around the neck and striking him in the jaw during a game, the National Basketball Association (NBA) said on Tuesday.

Detroit Pistons point guard Brandon Knight and World Peace tussled under the hoop while going for a rebound late in the second quarter of Sunday's game before World Peace hit his opponent in frustration.

The visiting Lakers went on to win 98-97.

World Peace will miss the Lakers' road game against the Brooklyn Nets later on Tuesday, the NBA said in a statement.

His suspension leaves the Lakers without two starters against the Nets as seven-times All-Star center Dwight Howard will miss his third consecutive game with a shoulder injury.

(Reporting by Larry Fine in New York; Editing by Frank Pingue)

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