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Lakers' Controversial Win Over Nuggets Sparks Criticism

3/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Denver Nuggets 127-125 in overtime on March 14, 2026.
Austin Reaves intentionally missed a free throw to secure a rebound and tie the game.
The NBA's Last Two Minutes Report concluded that Spencer Jones cleanly stripped the ball, so Reaves should not have been awarded the free throws.
That controversial call allowed the Lakers to extend the game.
Shaquille O’Neal criticized the Lakers' performance.

History

Historical Context

The 2002 Western Conference Finals between the Los Angeles Lakers and Sacramento Kings became infamous for controversial officiating, particularly in Game 6, where the Lakers attempted 27 free throws compared to the Kings' 9. This sparked allegations of game-fixing by former referee Tim Donaghy in 2008. The Lakers won the series in seven games, highlighting ongoing debates about fairness in NBA officiating.

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Story summary

The Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Denver Nuggets 127-125 in overtime on March 14, 2026.
Austin Reaves intentionally missed a free throw to secure a rebound and tie the game.
The NBA's Last Two Minutes Report concluded that Spencer Jones cleanly stripped the ball, so Reaves should not have been awarded the free throws.
That controversial call allowed the Lakers to extend the game.
Shaquille O’Neal criticized the Lakers' performance.

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