The NBA has opted to impose a $25,000 fine on Toronto Raptors head coach Darko Rajaković for publicly expressing his discontent with the officials. Rajaković openly shared his frustrations about the 132-131 loss last Tuesday, particularly highlighting what he deemed as ‘rigged’ calls by the referees in the game against the Los Angeles Lakers.
The following has been released by the NBA. pic.twitter.com/c6SX4oKTsy
— NBA Communications (@NBAPR) January 11, 2024
“That’s outrageous; what happened to us tonight, this is completely b.s. This is shame. Shame for the referees, shame for the league to allow this. 23 free throws for them and we get two free throws in the fourth quarter? … I understand respect for All-Stars and all of that but we have star players on our team as well.”
Darko Rajaković following the Raptors’ loss to the Lakers
Rajaković took it a step further by stating that if his team had known the calls would heavily favor the Lakers, they shouldn’t have participated in the games at all.
What exactly happened?
In summary, there is a widespread belief that the referees demonstrated unfairness by awarding 36 free throws to the Lakers compared to only 13 for the Raptors.
During the fourth quarter, Scottie Barnes received merely two free throws, while Los Angeles secured 23. When journalists inquired whether Rajaković received any explanations, the coach vehemently responded in the negative.
“There is no explanation; they just see what they want to see. They don’t want to hear us, what we have to say. They don’t want to hear the players.”
Darko Rajaković
Apart from the free throws, RJ Barrett also found himself called for an offensive foul.
LeBron James, on the other hand, held a different perspective, stating, “I felt like they fouled, and we didn’t.”
Fans Reactions
The majority of the audience on social media appears to support Rajaković’s stance.
Should’ve been more there was no justification for his tirade https://t.co/1gyXbR0lw5
— GOAT James👑🐐 (@BronToAD) January 11, 2024
Many individuals argue that the NBA’s biased officiating has become increasingly evident. The situation is exacerbated by LeBron James continually expressing his grievances on social media.
Although Rajaković’s fine may appear substantial, many view it as an honorable act for the coach to stand up for his team.
