The Golden State Warriors weren’t happy as they witnessed Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic make his way to the foul line over and over again. Jokic’s relentless pursuit resulted in him attempting 18 free throws, making all of them, and setting an NBA record for the most free throws made without a miss on Christmas Day. This performance left the Warriors questioning the way fouling is being refereed in the league, believing it is taking away from the essence of the game.
Warriors coach Steve Kerr expressed his dissatisfaction with how fouling has been handled across the NBA. Kerr felt that the defense is being legislated out of the game and that players are finding ways to manipulate referees into calling fouls. He went as far as saying that watching the game became “disgusting” due to the excessive number of free throws. Kerr believes that players have become smarter in drawing fouls, and it is spoiling the authenticity and competitiveness of the sport.
Jokic, the main player responsible for the Warriors’ frustration, claimed he wasn’t intentionally trying to sell calls but rather staying aggressive and hoping for a whistle. However, Warriors guard Stephen Curry acknowledged that “selling” calls is a skill that benefits players. Curry acknowledged the physicality of the game but stressed the importance of consistency in refereeing. Inconsistencies on both ends of the court can change the dynamics and outcome of a game.
Nuggets guard Jamal Murray defended Jokic’s actions by stating that as long as a player is “selling” a call and not flopping, there is no issue. He even argued that Jokic should receive more calls based on his overall performance and the physicality he endures every game. Murray believes that Jokic’s ability to draw fouls opens up opportunities for him and his team to succeed, despite his struggles at the free-throw line.
Heading into the game against the Warriors, the Nuggets were at the bottom of the league in free throw rate and attempts per 100 possessions. Jokic recognized that the team needed to be more aggressive in driving to the paint, as they were often settling for three-point shots, even in transition. The game against the Warriors provided a chance for the Nuggets to change their fortune by getting to the bonus early and capitalizing on the foul shots.
The Nuggets’ ability to get to the foul line disrupted the flow of the game and affected the Warriors’ defensive strategy. The constant stoppages due to free throws allowed the Nuggets to set their defense and limit the scoring opportunities for Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson. The Nuggets also capitalized on fast-break points, an area they had struggled in previously. The frustration from the Warriors reflected in their poor shooting percentages, ultimately resulting in a victory for the Nuggets.
The NBA’s handling of fouling calls has become a cause for concern for teams like the Golden State Warriors. Coaches and players alike are frustrated with the increasing number of free throws and believe it is diminishing the quality of the game. While some argue that players are simply “selling” calls and using their intelligence, others question the authenticity and fairness of the sport. Balancing the physicality of the game with consistent refereeing is crucial in preserving the essence and integrity of basketball.
Leave a Reply