If passed, two new proposals will allow officials to use instant replay at any point during a game. ESPN reports the NBA is proposing play can be reviewed under these circumstances:
1. To allow game officials to use instant replay at any point during a game to determine (i) whether a successful field goal was correctly scored as a 2-point or 3-point field goal and (ii) whether, for purposes of awarding the correct number of free throws, an unsuccessful field goal attempt on which the shooter was fouled was a 2-point or 3-point attempt.
2. To allow the game officials to use instant replay when the game clock malfunctions during a play concluding with no time remaining on the clock (0:00) at the end of any quarter or overtime period.
There’s little doubt the second proposal is responding to an unavoidable gaffe during Game 2 of the Detroit-Orlando series last May. The game clock stopped at 4.8 seconds while play continued. Chauncey Billups sank a 3-pointer to give the Pistons the lead and momentum swing. However, replays proved the basket shouldn’t have counted.
Since time still remained on the clock, the rules required referees to “reconstruct the play to the best of their ability.” Here’s how it went down:
In order for either of these changes to be adopted, at least 23 teams need to approve the proposal. Props to the League for recognizing how today’s technology can aid in obvious (but not obtrusive) circumstances during the game. The proposals should be approved by Opening Night.
