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The only possible thing the league can realistically do is suspend the referee crew and possibly change rules. Though it's my understanding that they had the option to challenge it, but waited too long to make that decision. Maybe they can give the refs leeway to initiate a replay anytime there is a questionable play like that?
Also I fully understand it is the refs job to get it right, but considering none of them appeared to see the ball go through it is somewhat understandable that Harden's initial reaction might have affected their decision on the play.
My understanding there was real confusion as what to challenge. Clearly watching the video, Harden and the Rockets were protesting the call.
This is what D'Antoni was quoted as saying:
"I have no idea," D'Antoni said. "I heard that they said the ball hit James and went back through, so it was a goaltend on James. I challenged that, and I didn't get a response. Then another guy said it wasn't a goaltend; it went out of bounds on us. And I said, 'Well, I challenge that.' Can't do that. You know, I don't know, to answer your question. I've got nothing. I can't tell you."
Personally I could care less about the outcome of the game but the league needs to be more humble on wanting to get the call right... a field goal no less. The referees needed to review that play.
On top of that the league office didn't do anything on their own afterwards.
A part of me is still upset about how high and mighty the league was in suspending Amare and Diaw. The league needs common sense.
https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/28222229/rockets-hopeful-nba-acts-james-harden-dunk-not-counted
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