Knicks fans outraged after NBA report confirms controversial call in painful Heat loss
The New York Knicks faced a heart-wrenching defeat on November 17, falling 115-113 to the Miami Heat in a game filled with tension and drama. Following the closely contested matchup, the NBA’s Last Two Minute Report (L2M) has shed light on a contentious call that has left Knicks supporters reeling.
Understanding the Last Two Minute Report
The L2M report serves as a critical tool for assessing officiating accuracy during the final moments of games that are tightly contested. It examines all whistles and significant non-calls when the score is within three points in the last two minutes. According to the league’s findings, officials are required to have “clear and conclusive video evidence” to determine whether a call was made in error. This assessment includes both direct calls that impact possession outcomes and indirect events that may be acknowledged but not classified as mistakes.
The Controversial Goaltending Call
The most debated moment in the Knicks’ loss unfolded with just 22.4 seconds remaining on the clock. As Karl-Anthony Towns attempted a putback following Miles McBride’s missed shot, Kel’el Ware executed a pivotal block. Initially, two of the three referees deemed the play a goaltending violation, which would have awarded the Knicks two crucial points and the lead. However, after a review utilizing advanced Hawkeye technology, the officials reversed their decision, ruling it a legal block.
The L2M report corroborated this reversal, asserting that the contact occurred while the ball was still within the cylinder, making it a valid defensive play under NBA regulations. This conclusion was certainly a bitter pill for Knicks fans to swallow, as the league upheld the officials’ judgment.
A Hard-Fought Battle Without Key Players
Despite missing key players Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby, the Knicks put forth a commendable effort. McBride emerged as a standout performer, leading the team with 25 points, including five three-pointers. Mikal Bridges also contributed significantly with 23 points. For the Heat, Towns posted a notable 22 points and 16 rebounds, albeit with an inefficient shooting night at 7-for-19.
Miami held a 10-point advantage with just three minutes left, but the Knicks rallied back. Towns hit a critical three-pointer, narrowing the gap to 115-113 with 22.4 seconds to go. Following the overturned goaltending call, officials opted for a jump ball, which Towns won, granting the Knicks one last opportunity.
A Last-Ditch Effort Falls Short
In a dramatic final sequence, McBride’s shot attempt missed, but Towns secured the offensive rebound. His putback effort also fell short, and he managed to grab yet another offensive board. However, his last attempt as the clock expired did not find the net, sealing the Knicks’ fate.
In the aftermath, the L2M report noted no incorrect calls during the final moments, affirming that “Kel’el Ware cleanly blocked Karl-Anthony Towns’ shot attempt while the ball was on its upward flight to the basket.” The heartbreak for Knicks fans was palpable as they grappled with the implications of this ruling and the missed opportunity that came so close to turning their fortunes around.
