JJ Redick Sounds Off on NBA Refs With Brutal Claim About LeBron James’ Whistle

Redick’s frustrations went beyond James’ whistle alone. The Lakers coach also accused Oklahoma City’s defense of consistently crossing the line physically.

Not only that, the postgame tension escalated further when Austin Reaves and several Lakers players gathered around the officiating crew at center court after the final buzzer. Reaves got into a heated exchange with Goble during the fourth quarter over a jump-ball positioning dispute.

JJ Redick is Having a Hard Time Dealing With the NBA’s Officiating

The frustration inside the Lakers locker room finally boiled over Thursday night. JJ Redick led the criticism afterward, openly questioning how officials have called Oklahoma City’s defense throughout the series.

“I sarcastically said the other day they were the most disruptive team without fouling,” Redick said postgame. “I mean, they have a few guys that foul on every possession and all the good defenses do.”

The officiating frustration had been building throughout the night. One of the biggest flashpoints came during a jump-ball sequence late in the fourth quarter involving Austin Reaves and Goble.

Additionally, several plays during the game amplified those frustrations. James appeared to absorb heavy contact from Jaylin Williams on a driving layup early in the game without receiving a whistle. Later, officials waved off what looked like an and-one basket from James by ruling the foul occurred before the shot attempt.