NBA Admits Referees Missed Key Calls in Cavs Game 2 Loss to Pacers

The NBA's Last Two Minute Report revealed that referees missed several critical calls in the final moments of Game 2 between the Cleveland Cavaliers and Indiana Pacers, significantly impacting the game's outcome. Two double lane violations involving multiple players entering the lane early were missed, negating a putback dunk by Aaron Nesmith and allowing Tyrese Haliburton to grab his own rebound off a missed free throw before hitting the game-winning three-pointer. According to the league, both situations should have resulted in a jump ball at midcourt rather than points for Indiana. Additionally, a defensive three-second violation by Cleveland's Donovan Mitchell went uncalled, which would have given Indiana an extra free throw. While the missed calls contributed to the Cavaliers’ collapse, analysts note that Cleveland also made crucial mistakes, including missed free throws, turnovers, and poor rebounding. The NBA’s admission offers little solace to Cavaliers fans, as the series continues with Cleveland facing a challenging deficit.