The NBA has fined Houston Rockets guard James Harden $25,000 for public criticism of the officiating. 

Harden, the reigning MVP, made his comments to the media following the Rockets' 111-106 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers on Feb. 21 at Staples Center.

He was called for four offensive fouls, including the call that disqualified him from the game with 1:24 left and the Rockets trailing by six.

"Scott Foster, man. I never really talk about officiating or anything like that, but just rude and arrogant," said Harden. 

The Rockets are currently fifth in the Western Conference with Harden averaging a career-high 36.5 points per game