The NBA has admitted to a missed call in the final minute of Game 2 of the Western Conference finals between the Dallas Mavericks and Minnesota Timberwolves. With 50 seconds left, a foul was not called on Kyrie Irving for slapping Jaden McDaniels’ forearm, which caused him to lose control of the ball.
The play was initially ruled in favor of the Minnesota Timberwolves, but Mavericks coach Jason Kidd challenged the call and won, which then gave possession back to the Dallas Mavericks. However, the NBA’s Last Two Minute Report stated that a foul should have been called on Irving, which would have sent McDaniels to the free-throw line with a chance to extend the Timberwolves’ lead.
Last 2 Minute Report says this was the only incorrect/missed call from Wolves-Mavs Game 2.
— Tomer Azarly (@TomerAzarly) May 25, 2024
Jaden McDaniels should've been awarded 2 free throws with Minnesota up 108-106 with about 47 seconds remaining.pic.twitter.com/KggpOFLcTE
The report explained that the foul was not reviewable during the challenge, and the play was only reviewed to determine which team last touched the ball. The missed call had a significant impact on the game, as the Mavericks went on to score the final three points and secure a 2-0 series lead.
Luka Doncic’s buzzer-beating shot has given Dallas momentum. Minnesota must regroup to overcome their challenges and keep their championship dreams alive.
The Timberwolves’ NBA Finals hopes are in jeopardy, and star player Anthony Edwards’ health is a concern. During their second-game loss to the Mavericks, Edwards required oxygen and briefly left the game.
During the time Anthony Edwards was checked out of the game from 7:53 to 5:31 remaining in the 4th Q, the Wolves guard put on a face mask to receive oxygen in the tunnel by the Minnesota bench.
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) May 25, 2024
Anthony Edwards disputed this as he said he felt great physically and didn’t need oxygen. He laughed off the suggestion, which contradicted earlier reports.
The series continues on Sunday with Game 3 at American Airlines Center, where the Timberwolves will look to bounce back from the missed call and get back in the series.
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