Steve Yeater/Associated Press

Sacramento Kings star DeMarcus Cousins received his 16th technical foul of the season Wednesday for sarcastically clapping near the end of the team's victory over the Washington Wizards. If the ruling is upheld, it will trigger an automatic one-game suspension.

Chris Mannix of The Vertical confirmed the news and added for every two more Cousins accrues, he'll be suspended another game.

Both Cousins and teammate Rajon Rondo received technicals for clapping at a late call, according to ESPN.com. The talented center commented on the referee's decision: "It's kind of unfortunate that it happened. I really don't know what to say about it. If I say something I'll get punished, and if I don't say something I'll get punished. I really don't know what the answer is anymore. I'm highly disappointed in what just happened."

Here's the moment in question, per Bleacher Report:

Cousins has been far and away the Kings' best player this season. He's averaging 27 points, 11.6 rebounds, 3.3 assists and 1.4 blocks per game. His player efficiency rating sits at a shade over 24, good enough for 10th in the NBA, per ESPN.com.

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The post player's performance against the Wizards was also a statistical rarity, as ESPN Stats & Info pointed out:

Fouls, both of the common and technical variety, remain an issue. The 25-year-old Kentucky product commits 3.6 personal fouls per contest, the most among qualified players, and his 16 technicals are four more than the next closest players.

It's not a new problem, as the story was similar last season. He led the league in fouls per game and finished third in technical fouls with 14. Keeping his emotions in check during the course of a game is an area where he could certainly improve.

If the NBA stands by the decision, Cousins will miss the team's home clash with the Miami Heat Friday night. Miami is battling for position in the Eastern Conference playoff picture, and that game becomes a lot easier if one of the league's top frontcourt players is suspended.