There are missed calls in every NBA game. But some are more costly than others.
With the Warriors slumping in the midst of a four-game losing streak, every non-call and disadvantage stings a bit more.
On Sunday, the NBA released its Last Two Minute Report for Golden State's 124-116 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers at Crypto.com Arena. The most notable of the referee miscues was a non-call on a late travel by LeBron James.
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After Steph Curry trimmed the Lakers' lead to 119-116 on a layup with 1:06 remaining in regulation, Lakers coach Frank Vogel called a timeout. A game-defining possession awaited both teams.
Opting to facilitate rather than score after the breather, LeBron bounced a pass to guard Russell Westbrook, who missed a fadeaway jumper. Lakers rookie Austin Reaves grabbed the offensive board and tossed it back to LeBron, who began directing traffic on the Lakers logo at half-court.
LeBron, being guarded by Klay Thompson, drove into the paint and dished it outside for teammate Carmelo Anthony, who nailed the wide-open 3-pointer to make it 122-116.
Game over.
However, the league's report indicates LeBron traveled on his way into the paint before passing to Anthony in the corner.
"James (LAL) splits his pivot foot at the start of his dribble," it reads.
Golden State Warriors
If a travel had been called, Golden State would have gained possession down three points with 38.6 seconds remaining. Curry and company then could have tied it up or executed a two-for-one therefore greatly increasing their chances to steal a win on the road and end their losing skid.
Instead, the Warriors will take their four-game losing streak to Ball Arena on Monday night when they face the Denver Nuggets.