More and more NBA referees are being called out publicly as the first month of the season progresses.
Paul George joins the growing list of critics after the Los Angels Clippers’ 111-108 loss to the defending NBA champion Denver Nuggets on Tuesday night.
George’s primary disputes were with the performance of the referees, feeling that they were biased against the Clippers, frustration about not getting enough free-throw attempts, and his dissatisfaction with a technical foul call he received.
“I thought we played great,” George said after the game. “It’s tough, the adversity of playing against the extra three [officials]. I thought they were awful. But, [against the] defending champs, we got to play better. There’s a lot to be positive about. I’m not one for moral victories, but I thought we showed more of a sign of a team tonight that’s close to getting it over the hump.”
George stated that he was issued the tech in the second quarter because he was disputing a non-call on his breakaway dunk attempt.
He also expressed disbelief that he only had five free-throw attempts during the game, given his belief that he was fouled during layups and 3-pointers numerous times.
“It was bad,” said George about the final stretch. “Five free throws is very disrespectful on this night. So many times I got hit on layups, 3-pointers, it was constant.”
“Jump shots, getting hit, smacked on the forearm. I mean, it was poor, a poor job. But, again, we got to be able to beat these guys on their floor and not rely on that. Again, they [are] calling something on one end, they got to call it on the other.”
George’s words led to a Last Two Minute Report that highlighted two incorrect no-calls in the game, one favoring the Nuggets and one favoring the Clippers, both involving George.
The league acknowledged missing a shooting foul by Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and a travel by George during critical moments of the game.
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George’s frustration likely stems from the Clippers’ six-game losing streak, as well as the game’s implications for the NBA’s in-season tournament.
Tuesday also marked the first night that the trio of George, Harden, and Leonard performed well together, with the Clippers coming back from a 13-point deficit and even taking a six-point lead late in the game.
Ultimately, the Nuggets secured the win with an outstanding performance from Nikola Jokić, who had 32 points, 16 rebounds, and nine assists.
Emily Turner is your source for everything NBA. As a dedicated basketball enthusiast, she offers insights into NBA games, player highlights, trade rumors, and the league’s evolving dynamics. Emily’s love for the sport shines through in her comprehensive NBA coverage.
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