NBA commissioner David Stern made his first public comments on the suspension of Laker small forward Metta World Peace after his vicious elbow. And they give us a clearer in-depth look into the thought process Stern underwent to making World Peace's punishment a seven game suspension.

Stern: "We knew that seven at this time of year was more severe than it would be for the regular season."

— Darnell Mayberry (@DarnellMayberry) April 25, 2012

Stern on the seven-game suspension: "It does take into account that the perpetrator is who he is and has the record that he has."

— Darnell Mayberry (@DarnellMayberry) April 25, 2012

It does seem to confirm what we all believe: The suspension would have been far tougher on World Peace if he had decided to swing his elbow at James Harden two months ago, possibly up to ten to fifteen games. But because of the importance of every playoff game, it makes sense that the suspension wouldn't be quite as lengthy.

The Lakers will definitely miss their starting small forward, as now Devin Ebanks and Matt Barnes will be charged with trying to hold down the fort until World Peace is eligible to play once again (after six playoff games). The Lakers are drawing either the Nuggets or the Mavericks in the first round.

To talk about the World Peace suspension with Laker fans, hit up Silver Screen and Roll.

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