In a closely contested game on Monday, the Memphis Grizzlies fell 120-118 to the Houston Rockets, with a missed call potentially impacting the outcome. The NBA’s “Last Two-Minute Report” highlighted that Dillon Brooks, a former Grizzlies player who now plays for the Rockets, should have been penalized for an offensive foul in a pivotal moment of the fourth quarter.
With just 27.9 seconds remaining, Memphis was trailing 116-115 when Brooks made contact with rookie Jaylen Wells, knocking him down. This contact allowed Jalen Green to receive the inbound pass without defensive pressure. The report indicated that Brooks leaned into Wells, thereby dislodging him from his position.
Had the offensive foul been called, Brooks would have incurred his sixth foul, and Memphis would have regained possession with a chance to take the lead. Instead, Houston capitalized on the possession, extending their lead with two free throws from Amen Thompson, and Memphis’s attempts to respond were thwarted when Ja Morant missed two critical free throws after being intentionally fouled.
This incident marks the second time in as many games that a critical missed call has been documented against Wells and the Grizzlies. In their previous matchup against the Timberwolves, the L2M report also revealed a missed offensive foul call on Anthony Edwards in the closing moments.
Every game is crucial in the fiercely competitive Western Conference, and disappointment looms for Memphis as they prepare to face the San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday night. The Grizzlies, currently at 25-15, will be looking to bounce back and strengthen their position in the standings.
In reflecting on these missed calls, it’s clear that while games are determined by many factors, pivotal plays can leave a lasting impression on teams and their season outcomes. It serves as a reminder of the importance of accurate officiating in maintaining the integrity of the game.