Did refereeing error cost the Lakers on Sunday night?

The LA Lakers are left fighting for the postseason lives after a crushing 116-113 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Sunday night.

The Lakers are now down 3-1 in the series and must win all three of the remaining games in this best-of-seven series to progress. Sunday’s performance was far-from perfect but the Lakers can feel justifiably aggrieved by a late no-call that could have given them the chance to take the lead.

With 33 seconds remaining on the clock, Luka Doncic appeared to be tripped by Minnesota’s Jaden McDaniels near the midcourt. The Lakers were able to call a time-out and retain possession but they were denied the free throws. Speaking after the game, Doncic was unequivocal: “I got tripped, for sure.”

One day on, it seems like Doncic was right. On Monday the NBA released a officiating report from the game that flagged the incident as an error.

“McDaniels (MIN) steps forward into Doncic’s (LAL) path, initiating illegal foot contact that causes him to lose his balance,” the NBA said in a Last Two Minute Report released on Monday.

It wasn’t the only controversial decision from Sunday’s game. Following the no-call foul on Doncic, Minnesota wrapped up the game with two free throws after LeBron James was adjudged to have fouled Anthony Edwards. That too went against the Lakers.

“That play happens all the time,” James told reporters after the game. “Hand is part of the ball. That’s what they said. I feel like the hand was a part of that ball.”

Heading into Game 5 the Lakers know that the odds are stacked against them to progress past an in-form Timberwolves team on Wednesday night. With James and Doncic on the court they have a chance of beating any team in the league but they will need to reset and regroup after Sunday’s draining defeat.

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.

Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.