The Los Angeles Lakers lost Game 4 of the Western Conference First Round to the Minnesota Timberwolves 116-113, leaving them with a 3-1 series disadvantage heading back to Los Angeles. A key moment occurred with just over 30 seconds remaining, when Luka Doncic seemed to be tripped by Timberwolves’ Jaden McDaniels while moving the ball.
The officials failed to call a foul, resulting in a Lakers timeout and a turnover that allowed the Timberwolves to preserve their lead and win the game. The NBA’s Last Two Minute Report, released on Monday, later revealed that officials missed a vital foul on Doncic on this play, admitting that he should have been awarded free throws.
The story exacerbated the Lakers’ anger, especially given the game’s close margin and the potential implications of the missed call on the result. Despite the league’s acknowledgment, Doncic remained collected when asked for his thoughts on the league’s contentious report.
“I mean, it’s after the game, so it’s not really important… The game is done; we lost. “I just need to move on,” he remarked.
Despite the loss, Doncic scored 38 points, his third 30-point game of the series, while experienced teammate LeBron James contributed 27 points, 12 rebounds, and 8 assists.
With the Lakers facing a must-win situation in Game 5, they will rely on its superstar pair to extend the series and keep their playoff chances alive.
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