NBA2 hours ago2 minute read

Ja Morant Plans Appeal After Rare Flopping Techs In Portland Win

Portland secured a 136-129 win over the Lakers despite three late flopping technical fouls, which Ja Morant now plans to appeal.

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Late whistles in Portland victory

Portland earned a 136-129 road win against the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday, but the late stages of the game were dominated by unusual referee calls. Officials handed out three technical fouls for flopping in the final six minutes of play.

Ja Morant and Toumani Camara of the Trail Blazers were both called for flopping technicals down the stretch. Lakers forward Ziaire Williams also received one. In total, the two teams combined to shoot 71 free throws in a slow, whistle heavy game.

Morant plans to fight the fine

Morant received his flopping call while guarding Austin Reaves late in the fourth quarter. Portland held a tight 121-120 lead when Reaves drove inside. Morant took contact to his chest and stepped backward with raised hands.

Morant finished with a season high 23 points and confirmed he wants to fight the call. He said he just showed his hands and took a bump in his chest without falling. He added that he will try to appeal what he believes is a $2,000 fine.

Morant noted that his defensive technique was an effort to adapt to early whistle calls on drives. He gave credit to his team for staying focused and getting the victory despite the late foul.

Teammates and coaches react

Damian Lillard contributed 21 points for Portland and sealed the win with a late 3 pointer. He expressed surprise at how strictly the referees enforced the rule during a tight contest. Lillard stated that unless it is a crazy flop, referees should not make that call when the game is being decided in a one possession battle.

Trail Blazers coach Micah Nori pointed out how rare three flopping calls in one game is. He noted that there were only 27 flopping calls in 2,000 games across the entire league last season.

What it means for the next game

Los Angeles Lakers at LA Clippers (NBA, Thu, 29 Oct): LA Clippers win 35%, Los Angeles Lakers win 65%; projected score LA Clippers 112, Los Angeles Lakers 116. Our safest pick: Clippers +13.5.

Memphis Grizzlies at Portland Trail Blazers (NBA, Fri, 30 Oct): Portland Trail Blazers win 79%, Memphis Grizzlies win 21%; projected score Portland Trail Blazers 122, Memphis Grizzlies 112. Our safest pick: Trail Blazers to win.