In a thrilling Game 2 victory for the New York Knicks, Tyrese Maxey drew fouls from Josh Hart and Jalen Brunson, leading to a controversial late-game comeback. The NBA confirmed the 76ers’ complaints regarding the fouls and provided details in their Last Two Minute report.
According to the report, both Hart and Brunson should have been whistled for fouls on Maxey during the scramble that occurred just before Donte DiVincenzo’s go-ahead 3-pointer with 13.0 seconds remaining. The report states that Brunson pulled Maxey’s jersey away from his body, affecting Maxey’s ability to secure the pass. This foul was not called by the officials.
Furthermore, with 24.9 seconds left in the game, Hart stepped forward into Maxey’s space and initiated contact, causing Maxey to lose his balance and fall to the floor. Again, no foul was called on Hart for this action.
However, the report did state that the officials were correct in not calling a foul on Maxey against Hart ahead of the inbounds play. It was determined that Maxey brought his hands towards Hart, and marginal contact occurred as Maxey released away from Hart during the inbound.
One notable incident mentioned in the report was that Philly coach Nick Nurse attempted to call a timeout during the play, but it was neither recognized nor granted by the officials.
In addition to these fouls, one non-call earlier in the final minute of action was ruled to have been missed in favor of the Knicks. This further adds to the controversy surrounding the game.
The report also highlighted an incident involving Joel Embiid. With 34.7 seconds remaining, Embiid extended his left hand forward and made contact with DiVincenzo’s head/face as he began his dribble. This contact affected DiVincenzo’s speed, quickness, balance, and rhythm.
Overall, the Last Two Minute report sheds light on the controversial fouls and non-calls that occurred in the Knicks’ Game 2 victory. The report supports the 76ers’ complaints and acknowledges the impact these fouls had on the game. The Knicks’ comeback victory will surely be a topic of discussion among NBA fans, with many questioning the officiating in this thrilling playoff matchup.
