The Oklahoma City Thunder’s 105-101 loss to the New Orleans Pelicans came with some controversy.
With 11 seconds to go, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander had a chance to tie or take the lead in a two-point game. As Gilgeous-Alexander began to drive to the basket, Pelicans defender Herb Jones absorbed contact and fell to the ground.
The call on the floor took some time to make. One referee signaled a blocking foul while another signaled a charge. After discussing it, Gilgeous-Alexander was called for a charge. With 2.3 seconds left, the call essentially sealed the win for the Pelicans.
Well, the NBA’s last two-minute report declared the call was wrong and Jones should’ve been called for a blocking foul, which would’ve rewarded Gilgeous-Alexander two free throws.
“Jones (NOP) moves laterally into Gilgeous-Alexander’s (OKC) path, and does not establish a legal guarding position in his path prior to contact.”
L2M report:
SGA’s late 4Q charge was the incorrect call
“Jones (NOP) moves laterally into Gilgeous-Alexander's (OKC) path, and does not establish a legal guarding position in his path prior to contact.”
— Clemente Almanza (@CAlmanza1007) November 29, 2022
On the report, the Thunder also benefited from three incorrect non-calls: a Gilgeous-Alexander defensive three seconds at the 1:14 mark, a Gilgeous-Alexander personal foul on Dyson Daniels at the 0:34 mark and a Lu Dort loose ball foul on Daniels at the 0:09 mark.
Nonetheless, while it’s unfortunate the call was wrong, there’s really no point in crying over spilled milk. The damage is done and all the Thunder can do is get ready for their game against the San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday.
