Phoenix Suns vs LA Clippers: Final 90 Seconds Turning Into 33 Real Time Minutes Shows NBA’s Huge Problem

The LA Clippers faced off against the Phoenix Suns in game 2 of the Western Conference Finals. Given how well-matched both the teams are, this matchup is certainly one of the most interesting series’ in the NBA playoffs.

After a victory for Suns in the very first game, the Clippers knew they had to put up a good performance in the second game if they wanted to tie the series. This game was an absolute slugfest.

With both the teams trying to get take a commanding lead in the game, the Clippers and the Suns were only separated by a single point at the end of the first half with a scoreline of 49-48.

This continued in the second half as well as both the teams were at it, but ultimately Devin Booker and Co. ousted the Clippers led by Paul George. Courtesy of a last second alley op dunk by Suns big man DeAndre Ayton burried the game with 0.7 seconds remaining. The Clippers ultimately couldn’t hit the bucket as the Suns took a 2-0 lead in the series with a 104-103 win.

READ MORE- Phoenix Suns’ Coach Monty Williams Explains The Similarities Between Kobe Bryant & Devin Booker

Never ending last-quarter in game 2 between LA Clippers & Phoenix Suns

While this game was an instant classic, the last quarter of the game was extremely frustrating for the NBA community. It wasn’t the game, rather the refereeing in the game. In a staggering record, the last two minutes of the game clock lasted for a whopping 33 minutes in real time.

This was majorly due to the incredible number of visual reviews called in by the officials. Within the last 2 minutes of the game, referee Scott Foster and team had a whopping 5 reviews.

What makes this number more fascinating is that the number of field goals made during the same time was also only 5. Given how high the stakes are, refereeing in games has to be top notch.

Many of these reviews were on some of the most pivotal calls in the game. While some of these reviews ultimately were a game-changer, the sheer amount of time taken was certainly pretty astonishing.

NBA community criticizes questionable refereeing in game 2

Understandably many fans, pundits and ex-players called out the league. From trolling the league officials, to questioning the league’s policies, the community surely was frustrated with the latest antics.

While the league is taking a right step in improving the refereeing quality, these reviews inadvertently are time-taking and frustrating for the general audience. If the league wants its fans to stick around, they need to strike a balanced chord between elite refereeing and best viewing experience for the fans. Can the league do so in the near future?