In a heart-pounding clash between the Sacramento Kings and the New York Knicks, a critical moment slipped through the fingers of the referees. The NBA’s admission of a missed call during a key possession has left fans and players alike pondering the impact it had on the outcome.
With just 57 seconds remaining on the clock, the Kings found themselves trailing the Knicks by a slim margin of 94-91. The intensity was palpable, and every decision mattered. Enter Domantas Sabonis, the Kings’ powerhouse in the paint.
As Sabonis battled on the block with New York’s wing, O.G. Anunoby, the stakes couldn’t have been higher. But what unfolded next would alter the course of the game.
Anunoby, in his attempt to swipe for the ball, made contact with Sabonis. The referees, however, failed to blow the whistle. Instead, Sabonis was inexplicably called for a double dribble, resulting in a turnover. A possession reset for Sacramento could have changed the narrative, but fate had other plans.
Not sure there’s another wing in the league who can come over in help and absorb this Sabonis blow to prevent a shot attempt.
The defensive value is off the charts. What a play. pic.twitter.com/i9eeXEA6Gj
— Rit Holtzman (@BenRitholtzNBA) March 17, 2024
NBA held accountable for Referee’s mistake
The Knicks capitalized on the non-call. With the clock ticking down, they executed on their ensuing possession, extending their lead to 96-91 with just 37.1 seconds left. The game was effectively iced, leaving the Kings with a bitter taste of what might have been.
For the Kings, this missed call looms large. Their playoff hopes hang in the balance, with a precarious hold on the No. 6 seed in the Western Conference. Every win—or loss—counts, especially when tied with the Phoenix Suns and Dallas Mavericks.
The NBA’s admission sheds light on the imperfections of officiating. While we celebrate the thrill of the game, we must also acknowledge its human elements. Sabonis deserved better, and the Kings deserved a fair shot. As the season unfolds, let’s hope for more clarity and consistency in those critical moments.
