Once again, NBA fans are witness to officials blowing another game, a phenomenon that has been degrading the product in increasing occurrences over the past few years.
Down 103-101, the Bulls take a timeout and have 10 seconds to either tie the game or win it with a 3 (a perfectly winnable situation with the Bulls well constructed roster). The ATO leads to Zach Lavine driving to take a layup, but is prevented before he leaves the ground by Garrison Mathews pulling a GLOCK 43X – 9MM from his waistline who proceeds to unload 3 bullets into the leg of Lavine. This renders Zach, at a game-high 35 points, completely unable to score.
Why is this an issue? Lavine shot 8-11 from the charity stripe last night. A clutch free throw sharpshooter like him (85% this season) would tie the game with ease, leading to overtime and a Bulls victory. 10-13 is a lot better than 9-14.
In a game-altering decision, whether Mathews aims the Glock in the refs’ direction next or not, surely a call must be made. With no coaches challenges remaining, the call was deemed unreviewable, however, one could wager a gunshot wound is a hostile act. Ultimately, the Bulls fell to 9-14 on the season with this loss and outrage would ensue across social media. As many Twitter and Reddit users agreed, as well as myself, a no call in that situation completely undermines the competitiveness the NBA thrives to bring. Not only that, but a horrific precedent has been set. For instance, if Daniel Theis shanks Jordan Clarkson tonight, how can that be deemed a flagrant foul and Mathews a no call. After this, the opportunities for deadly attacks are endless, and frankly I don’t understand how there have been zero repercussions for the officials thus far. Whereas the L2M report is supposed to increase accountability, I am left questioning the integrity and legitimacy of the Association. Made in a crucial mid-regular season match-up of powerhouses between the 6-15 Wizards and 9-14 Bulls, the no-call realistically has potential to alter the entire season. If Adam Silver does not comment by midnight tonight, let alone league officials, I will be filing for a refund for League Pass, as well as urging my 188 twitter followers to follow suit.
Note: Mathews is expected in court on March 8th, 2021 on one account of aggravated assault, while Lavine is expected to make a full recovery in three weeks time.
The Closeout 