'He doesn’t just fall on his own': JJ Redick Stresses on the Referee Blunder that Has Pushed Lakers on the Brink of Elimination

The LA Lakers suffered a devastating loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves in game 4 of the Playoffs to go 1-3 behind in the series. The defeat has put them in a huge spot of bother, as another slump would end their campaign. It will take a herculean effort on their part to survive and progress from here, but they have the firepower to pull off the unthinkable. However, they first have to shrug off the disappointment of the Game 4 loss.

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JJ Redick Pays Heed to the Officiating Error

Addressing the heartbreaking loss that emanated in the final moments on Sunday in the game against Timberwolves at the Target Center, Lakers head coach JJ Redick complained about a referee decision that went against the Los Angeles Lakers and ended up proving to be too costly for the team.

Jaden McDaniels pressured Luka Doncic with under a minute left, causing him to stumble. Despite apparent contact, no foul was called, and the Lakers turned the ball over on the ensuing play, allowing Anthony Edwards to seal the win with free throws.

JJ Redick was vocal postgame, arguing that Doncic was clearly fouled. “Luka got tripped,” he said. “That was a blatant trip. He doesn’t just fall on his own.” The Lakers, in the bonus at the time, would have had free throws to reclaim the lead if a foul had been whistled.

The Lakers' coach strongly disputed the no-foul call on Luka Doncic, believing he should have gone to the line. The call proved pivotal in the close game, as Minnesota scored from the free-throw line while the Lakers' opportunity faded. The NBA's last-two-minute report will later review the play.

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Lakers In a Do or Die Spot

Whether it was a foul or not, it is in the past and won't change what has happened. So, the Lakers have to quickly forget the loss and regroup for a must-win Game 5, which will be held on Wednesday. The home crowd at the Crypto.com arena will get behind the Lakers, thus the trailing team have some impetus. With all to look forward to, it will be intriguing to witness whether the Lakers will be able to soak in all the pressure and stage a return.