Lakers News: James’s Controversial 3-Point Shot Is Making Him Angry

The Los Angeles Lakers lost to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Saturday night despite a fierce two-point game that featured a contentious call that had a big impact. With just 2.1 seconds left, LeBron James drove up in transition for what would have been the game-tying 3-pointer after a defensive stop.

Although the officials decided that James’ toe was in the way, a review of the was started right away. James’ foot appeared to be slightly behind the line in the replays, but the call was upheld by the officials.

James attempted to use the monitor as part of his appeal to the officials, but in the end, L.A. lost and only managed a two-point basket. James was subsequently understandably upset by the decision, as reported by Spectrum SportsNet:

“Clearly, it’s a 3. I had stepped over the line. The distance between the front of my foot and the 3-point line was visible to you. There was room between my foot and the 3-point line, and the wood on the floor was easily visible. Champ, Stevie Wonder could see that. I spoke with the other referee instead of Tony Brothers, and they informed me that they had no control over the situation. Someone was eating a ham sandwich over there in the replay center, Secaucus or whatever, or they were the ones who placed the call.

Even though the play was incredibly close,LeBr on was correct to call it a 3-pointer because he could see the court’s wood between his toe and the line when he lifted his foot. However, official Tony Brothers clarified their position, stating that the evidence was inconclusive.

After the game, Brothers stated, “The play was ruled a two-point field goal on the floor during live play.” “It stood as a two-point field goal after video review because there wasn’t clear and convincing evidence to overturn it from a two to a three.”

James and the Lakers were not happy about being deemed inconclusive evidence, especially in light of the still shots that were available. James continued by raising doubts about the necessity of a replay center if the final calls aren’t made correctly:

Overall, the Lakers had a frustrating night with the officials because they were denied numerous foul calls despite obvious contact. The Lakers did not have the officials on their side in a game against the Western Conference’s best team.

James and the Lakers have a right to feel that they were denied the opportunity to play the game, even though many losing teams in the NBA make the same claim.