Lakers-Timberwolves refs make insane overturn of Luka Doncic foul on Julius Randle
In a highly contentious moment during an NBA playoff game between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Minnesota Timberwolves, a foul call against Luka Doncic on Julius Randle was overturned after being challenged by the Lakers. Despite clear contact, the referees deemed the contact 'marginal,' sparking outrage among fans who felt the decision favored the Lakers. This incident reignited debates about the effectiveness and integrity of replay reviews in ensuring fair calls. Critics argued that such overturns undermine the purpose of replay systems, especially when the initial foul seems evident. Consequently, the Timberwolves were left disadvantaged, while Doncic received increased attention despite his defensive lapse.
During a pivotal NBA playoff game, Luka Doncic made contact with Julius Randle's arm during a 3-point attempt, initially resulting in a foul call on the floor.
The Los Angeles Lakers contested the foul call, prompting a review which led to the decision being overturned as the contact was considered 'marginal' by the referees.
This decision caused significant uproar among fans and commentators, with many accusing the Lakers of receiving preferential treatment from the officiating team.
The incident raised questions about the purpose and reliability of replay reviews, as many saw the initial foul as clear and the reversal as unjustified.
Despite the controversy, the Timberwolves were left without the foul call, while Luka Doncic gained attention, highlighting ongoing issues with his defensive play.
The discussion surrounding this event highlighted broader concerns about fairness and accuracy in NBA officiating, especially in high-stakes playoff scenarios.
Billy Heyen, a freelance sports writer, provides coverage and analysis of such incidents, underscoring the persistent debates over officiating in professional basketball.
The referees in the Los Angeles Lakers' game against the Minnesota Timberwolves made one of the most confusing calls of the NBA playoffs on Wednesday night.
On a pass out to the corner, Minnesota's Julius Randle rose up for a 3-pointer.
Doncic closed out, late getting there.
Just after Randle released the ball, Doncic whacked him hard on the right arm.
On the floor, it was ruled a foul.
But wait: The Lakers challenged.
And after review, the contact was deemed "marginal" and the call was overturned.
Thoughts on this not being a foul? pic.twitter.com/CwG6NSpnmA
β Pikkit (@pikkitsports) May 1, 2025
The call had fans up in arms on X (formerly Twitter).
Some complained that the Lakers get all the calls.
Others wondered what the point of replay review is if it makes the calls worse.
Really, it's just a bit of a mental stump there. How could that be deemed enough of an incorrect call to change the decision on the floor?
Doncic clearly hits Randle on the arm. That's always a foul (unless you're Tim Hardaway Jr. for the Pistons).
Somehow, though, Minnesota came away empty-handed, and Doncic came away with a lot more positive attention even with the clip being yet another example of his shaky defense.