This was a highly exciting and dramatic match that took place on December 31 (Vietnam time). The top stars of both teams, such as Edwards, Rudy Robert (Minnesota), and Anthony Davis, LeBron James (Lakers), were still the standout players on the court. The intensity reached its peak when there were only a few seconds left after LeBron James scored.
During the game against the Minnesota Timberwolves, LeBron James found himself in a crucial moment. With the score at 104-107 in favor of Minnesota, Anthony Davis quickly launched a counterattack for LeBron James, who decided to shoot a long-range three-pointer to tie the game. However, the referees deemed that James had stepped on the three-point line before releasing the shot, resulting in only two points being awarded. Given the significance of this situation, the officials requested a video review.
After a prolonged period of reviewing the footage, the officiating team ultimately upheld their decision. Following the disputed play, the Minnesota team continued their attack and managed to score an additional point, ending the game with a score of 108-106, much to the frustration of LeBron James.
“It was clearly a three-point shot. My foot was behind the line. You can see the gap between my toe and the three-point line. I’m really puzzled by the slow-motion replay system. What’s the point of having it if the referees still make the wrong call?” expressed LeBron James, clearly dissatisfied with the referees’ decision.
Meanwhile, head referee Tony Brothers explained, “On the court, the initial ruling was that it was a two-point shot. After reviewing the footage, we didn’t have enough clear evidence to overturn the decision. That’s why the play remained as a two-point shot.”
This defeat keeps the Lakers in the 9th position in the Western Conference. On the first day of the new year, January 1, 2024, the Lakers will embark on an away game against the New Orleans Pelicans.