The NBA has admitted that two referee mistakes helped the Chicago Bulls defeat the Toronto Raptors 108-106 on Friday night. The league’s last two minute report, which reviews the officiating decisions in close games, revealed that DeMar DeRozan should have been called for a traveling violation and that Jimmy Butler should have been awarded two free throws in the final seconds of the game.
DeRozan’s travel goes unnoticed
The report stated that DeRozan moved his pivot foot before releasing the ball on a pass to Kyle Lowry, who missed a potential game-tying three-pointer with 6.3 seconds left. The play was not whistled by the referees, who had a clear view of DeRozan’s feet. The travel violation would have given the Bulls possession and a chance to extend their lead.
Butler denied free throws after foul
The report also noted that Butler was fouled by Norman Powell on a layup attempt with 2.4 seconds left, but no foul was called. The contact affected Butler’s shot, which missed the rim and went out of bounds. The Raptors got the ball back and had one last opportunity to tie or win the game, but Fred VanVleet’s three-pointer was blocked by Lauri Markkanen as time expired.
Bulls escape with narrow win
The Bulls improved to 2-1 with the win, while the Raptors fell to 1-2. Butler led the Bulls with 22 points, seven rebounds and six assists, while Markkanen added 20 points and nine rebounds. DeRozan had a game-high 28 points for the Raptors, who were without star guard Kyle Lowry for most of the second half due to a sprained ankle.
The game was close throughout, with 18 lead changes and 14 ties. The Bulls took a 106-103 lead with 1:06 left on a three-pointer by Zach LaVine, who finished with 19 points. The Raptors cut the deficit to one on a three-point play by DeRozan with 53.4 seconds left, setting up the controversial final sequence.
NBA’s last two minute report sparks debate
The NBA’s last two minute report is a transparency initiative that aims to provide accountability and clarity on the officiating decisions in close games. The report is published on the league’s website within 24 hours of each game that meets the criteria of being within three points at any point in the final two minutes of regulation or overtime.
However, the report has also been criticized by some players, coaches and fans, who argue that it does not change the outcome of the game and only creates more controversy and frustration. Some have also questioned the accuracy and consistency of the report, as well as its impact on the referees’ performance and confidence.
