When the Indiana Pacers led the NBA Finals 1-0 against the Oklahoma City Thunder, head coach Rick Carlisle honestly said his honest view on NBA games, especially how many whistles were blown, was his honest opinion.
After a close game ended with the championship of Tyrese Haliburton, most of the post-match speech wasn’t just about the game on the court, but about its rhythm. The two teams made only 45 free throw attempts in total, creating a smooth, rhythmic process that fans and analysts praised.
Rick Carlisle, speaking in the media before Game 2 on Saturday, said there were fewer hosts on the playoffs, fewer foul calls, and more physical games were the right direction for the league.
“The game has become more physical over the past year and a half thanks to changes to interpretations. [of the rule book],” Carlisle said. “I believe this is the right way. No one wants to play in an NBA game, watch free throws, and let the game last for three hours. ” he said.
The Pacers coach is not alone in this opinion. Many around the league expressed similar sentiment as officials allowed more connections and fewer disruptions throughout the playoffs.
Still, Carlisle’s comments may reappear based on hosting by Oklahoma City star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. The new crown league MVP averaged more than 10 free throw attempts per game in the Western Conference Finals against the Timberwolves, a statistic that has attracted criticism from some fans. In the first game of the final, he tried eight free throws, which was 8.8 in his regular season average.
As the final heats up, Carlisle’s remarks set the tone for him and many fans, hoping it will be a tough series with minimal shutdowns and the biggest move.
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