The clock in the Lakers game last night was incorrect so they played an extra minute
¡INCREDIBLE! Clock Error Extends Los Angeles Lakers vs. Memphis Grizzlies game by 66 seconds
NBASunday, 14 April 2024 at 08:34
In a game already filled with suspense, the Los Angeles Lakers' victory over the Memphis Grizzlies on Friday night carried an unexpected twist, as more than a minute of extra game time was added due to a clock error in the third quarter.
An NBA spokesperson confirmed to ESPN that the game clock was inaccurately set during the third quarter of the matchup, which ultimately ended with the Lakers prevailing 123-120. League spokesperson Tim Frank explained the situation, stating that after a shot clock violation, the clock was erroneously set at 2:20 when it should have been at 1:14.
The error went unnoticed by the teams, referees, game clock operator, and the stats crew in real-time, ultimately impacting the game's outcome.
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The sequence leading to the clock error occurred when the Grizzlies shot two consecutive air balls, resulting in a shot clock violation with 1:14 remaining in the third quarter. However, the shot clock was reset mistakenly after the second attempt, leading to confusion on the court.
Memphis guard Timmy Allen's subsequent shot, after the shot clock should have expired, did not count. Referee Scott Wall signaled the shot clock violation, awarding possession to the Lakers, but the game clock was reset incorrectly.
During the additional 1:06 of play, the Lakers and Grizzlies managed to score two points each, tying the mini-contest at 2-2. Lakers' star Anthony Davis and Grizzlies' Jordan Goodwin both made jump shots during this period.
Despite the game's extended duration, the Lakers emerged victorious, securing a crucial win as they enter the final stretch of the regular season. Lakers' LeBron James notably scored six consecutive points in the final minute, sealing the victory for his team.
Memphis, facing a slew of injuries with 13 players on the injured list, displayed resilience by fielding two-way players and 10-day contracts to complete their roster.
While the clock error didn't notably impact the game's competitiveness, it did contribute to the playing time of key Lakers players, with James logging 41 minutes and Davis playing for 43 minutes.
In post-game remarks, Lakers coach Darvin Ham acknowledged the necessity of pushing players during this critical phase of the season, emphasizing the team's readiness to meet challenges head-on.
Despite concerns about fatigue, James reassured fans that he would be ready for the team's upcoming fixture against the New Orleans Pelicans.
Additionally, the NBA released its Last Two Minute Report, identifying three incorrect calls that favored the Lakers. These included missed traveling violations by James and a non-called shooting foul on Grizzlies' GG Jackson, leading to a technical foul on Grizzlies coach Taylor Jenkins for disputing the decision.
As the regular season draws to a close, the Lakers' victory, marred by the clock error and officiating discrepancies, underscores the intensity and unpredictability of NBA competition.
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