Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James was not gifted with a stress-free birthday Saturday in his team’s 108-106 loss to the Timberwolves.
The 39-year-old was livid toward the officials on the sidelines at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minn. due to a controversial call that worked out in the home team’s favor.
It looked like LeBron’s toe was touching the line as he jumped to take the 3. #Lakers had other chances. #Timberwolves made more plays to win. #NBA pic.twitter.com/KcGRQJWeEE
— Faisal Hassan (@Faazzla) December 31, 2023
The Lakers star scored what he thought was a game-tying three-pointer with 3.1 seconds left. Instead, officials ruled his shot a two-pointer by mere centimeters (video here).
The referees reviewed the call and determined that there was no clear and conclusive evidence to overturn their decision.
The Lakers got "clear and conclusived" in Minnesota pic.twitter.com/g6nCGmcymS
— Dan Woike (@DanWoikeSports) December 31, 2023
The scene drew parallels with another controversial referee moment from last season that had James fuming.
James got another chance to tie the game and force overtime after Anthony Edwards split a pair of free throws. But with 1.4 seconds on the clock, James couldn’t get a shot off.
WOLVES WIN WOLVES WIN ‼#RaisedByWolves 108#LakeShow 106 pic.twitter.com/EGUmHD7SGS
— FanDuel Sports Network North (@FanDuelSN_NOR) December 31, 2023
James tallied 26 points, 3 rebounds, 6 assists, and 3 steals on 10/21 shooting from the field. He finished with just one three-pointer but was definitely left wishing he had two.
