Poor officiating during the games is a story we have heard throughout this season. Was it also the case when the Lakers swept the Toronto Raptors in a close 132-131 win on Tuesday night? Raptors head coach Darko Rajakovic’s reaction to the loss indicates as much. After the game, the coach unleashed a furious tirade, pounding the table and vehemently criticising the officials for what he perceived as unfair treatment towards certain teams in the league.

His frustration stemmed from the free throw discrepancy, as evident in the 23-2 difference in the fourth quarter. More glaringly, the guests only shot two free throws, compared to the Lakers’ 23 in the final quarter. However, LeBron James succinctly put the officiating bias allegations to rest with his four-word response.

LeBron James dispels officiating bias claims

In the post-game conference, when asked if the fouls were called fairly in the fourth quarter, given the huge difference in numbers, James responded, “They fouled, we didn’t.” And he is not wrong. The free throws were relatively even through the first three quarters, 13 for the Lakers and 11 for the Raptors. However, the Lakers surged in the fourth quarter, amassing 23 free throws. Let’s break it down. Toronto deliberately committed fouls in the late stages to extend the game, resulting in eight of those fourth-quarter free throws. Additionally, flagrant fouls, like Immanuel Quickley’s elbow to Cam Reddish’s chin, contributed. Another two free throws were earned at 1:37 remaining from Max Christie’s offensive rebound, summing up to 12 of those 23 free throws.

Factor in the absence of Jakob Poeltl, forcing the Raptors to play Pascal Siakam at center against Anthony Davis. Siakam fouled AD with 34 seconds remaining, with the Lakers leading 122-121. Also, Davis and Austin Reaves made 10 straight free throws in the clutch moments, which led them to the win. In conclusion, the Raptors gave up a lot of free throws, and L.A. made sure to make the most of the opportunity. However, the Raptors’ HC holds a different opinion.

Raptors’ HC does not hold back on the criticism

After the game, the Serbian head coach went on a fiery rant, slamming the referees for their preferential treatment. He did not mince his words as he stated, “That’s outrageous. What happened tonight, this is completely BS, this is shame. Shame for the referees, shame for the league to allow this.” He also expressed shock at how an All-Star-caliber player like Scottie Barnes got only two free throws throughout the whole game.

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He then went on to issue an ultimatum for the league, “They had to win tonight? If that’s the case, just let us know, so we don’t show up for the game. Just give them a win. But that was not fair tonight.”

What are your thoughts on Darko Rajakovic’s comments? Share your thoughts!

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