Controversy Erupts Over Referee Decisions
The NBA league announced the referee report for the final two minutes of Game 2 in the playoff series between the Philadelphia 76ers and the New York Knicks, revealing four critical officiating errors. Three of these errors favored the Knicks, significantly impacting the outcome of the game.
Ignored Timeout Requests
With only 27 seconds remaining in the game, after Brunson of the Knicks made a three-point shot to reduce the deficit to two points, 76ers head coach Nick Nurse signaled for a timeout. However, the referees ignored Nurse’s request, allowing play to continue. When Maxey of the 76ers secured possession of the ball and fell to the ground, Nurse again signaled for a timeout, but his request was disregarded once more, leading to a successful steal and a game-changing three-point shot by the Knicks.
Nurse’s Frustration
In a post-game interview, Nurse expressed frustration, stating, “I called for a timeout, and the referees clearly saw it but chose to ignore me.”
Missed Foul Calls
In the same play, Maxey was initially impeded by Brunson, who grabbed his jersey, and Hart’s aggressive actions caused Maxey to fall to the ground. Both of these actions, according to the referee report, should have been fouls. As a result, Maxey would have had two opportunities for free throws, potentially extending the 76ers’ lead to four points with only two possessions left for the Knicks.
Maxey’s Reaction
After reviewing the referee report, Maxey acknowledged, “I should have been more protective of the ball. When I fell, I should have held onto it and called a timeout, but this is the result…” Despite the missed opportunities, Maxey remained confident, stating, “We know we can still win this series.”
76ers Lodge Formal Protest
Reports indicate that the Philadelphia 76ers have officially filed a protest with the league, arguing that they did not receive fair officiating in the first two games of the series. However, it is widely believed that this protest is unlikely to alter the outcome of the games. Instead, it serves as a means for the team to voice their concerns and frustrations.
Implications for Game 3
With the 76ers facing a two-game deficit and virtually no margin for error, Game 3 of the seven-game series is crucial. The game will take place at the 76ers’ home court on Friday, Taiwan time. The team is determined to bounce back from the consecutive losses and regain momentum in the series.(Bouncingball8)