The Los Angeles Lakers have been at the center of a controversy surrounding referees’ calls and a significant free-throw disparity this season. While some fans and experts have questioned the integrity of NBA officials, there is currently no grand conspiracy behind officiating. However, referees may carry unconscious biases, and the referees’ union revealed one of theirs by groveling to LeBron James and the Lakers over a “gut-wrenching” blown call.
Free-Throw Discrepancy Explained
The Lakers have attempted 428 more free throws than their opponents this season and are attempting 5.5 more free throws per 100 possessions than their opponents. The team has received more free throws than their opponents from 53 of the NBA’s 65 referees. While the Lakers rank 20th in 3-point shooting, they rank sixth in paint touches and fifth in field-goal attempts at the rim. This ability to get to the rim and draw contact makes them better at drawing fouls and more likely to be fouled, leading to their increased free-throw disparity.
Not Just Anthony Davis
While some attribute the Lakers’ increased free-throw disparity to Anthony Davis’ availability and aggressiveness, it cannot be solely attributed to him. Austin Reaves has transformed into the league leader in free-throw rate among all guards in his second season, and backcourt mate Dennis Schroder’s free-throw rate this season has jumped 15% from his career average.
Who Benefits Most?
The significant free-throw disparity has benefited the Lakers and kept their playoff hopes alive but raises questions about who benefits most from officiating and why. The team is full of players who don’t typically foul or draw fouls on the other end, resulting in them getting to the line more frequently than anyone in the league. While some may argue that the Lakers just built a team of guys that don’t typically foul and draw fouls on the other end, others see this as an advantage that they have created for themselves.
Reaction from Other Teams
The focus has been on the free-throw discrepancy between the Lakers and their opponents, instead of the Lakers’ recent performance or Anthony Davis’ great season. The Suns’ head coach, Monty Williams, defended his team after their loss to the Lakers, which caused a stir on social media. Critics argue that while on the surface, the Lakers’ free-throw differential seems gaudy, with context, it’s not that egregious. They attempt 5.6 more free throws per game than their opponents on average.
Title: Ohio State Alumni in NBA Playoffs Race
As the NBA playoffs race heats up, several former Ohio State Buckeyes are making their mark on the league. While three former Buckeyes are out of the playoffs, some are still in contention with their respective teams.
D’Angelo Russell Returns to Lakers
D’Angelo Russell started his career with the Los Angeles Lakers before being traded to the Brooklyn Nets. He is now back with the Lakers after a trade but has been injured and played in just 11 games this season.
Mike Conley Finds Success with Timberwolves
Mike Conley left Ohio State for a successful career in the NBA and is currently playing with the Minnesota Timberwolves. While he started slow this season, he has recently picked up his offensive production and shows no signs of slowing down.
Malaki Branham’s Rookie Season with Spurs
Malaki Branham is a rookie with the San Antonio Spurs and has had inconsistent performances as the team is not in contention for playoffs. However, his potential for growth and improvement is promising.
Keita Bates-Diop Comes into His Own with the Spurs
Keita Bates-Diop is having his best season in the NBA with the San Antonio Spurs and has set career-highs in games played and started. He has shown growth and promise on both ends of the court.
Jae’Sean Tate Signs Three-Year Contract with Rockets
Jae’Sean Tate is playing for the Houston Rockets but has been dealing with injuries this season. However, he recently signed a three-year contract with the team, showing their belief in him and his potential.
Duane Washington Jr’s Rise to Opportunity
Duane Washington Jr was released from the Phoenix Suns and signed a two-way contract with the New York Knicks, but has not played due to a hip injury. However, his opportunity for growth and development will come as he recovers and works to make an impact on his new team.
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
