In a fiery post-game outburst, Toronto Raptors (15-22) coach Darko Rajakovic expressed vehement frustration over the officiating following a narrow 132-131 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers (19-19) on Tuesday night.
Rajakovic criticized the significant free throw disparity, particularly in the fourth quarter, where the Lakers attempted 23 free throws compared to the Raptors’ meager two.
The coach, didn’t mince words, describing the situation as “completely bullsh*t” and expressing his disappointment with the officiating. Rajakovic emphasized the disparity in free throws, highlighting Anthony Davis’ 11-for-11 perfection at the line in the final period, contributing to his game-high 41 points.
“It’s outrageous. What happened tonight, this is completely bullsh*t,” Rajakovic exclaimed. “This is shame. Shame for the referees. Shame for the league to allow this. Twenty-three free throws for them, and we get two free throws in the fourth quarter? Like, how to play the game? I understand respect for All-Stars and all that, but we have star players on our team as well.”
Rajakovic further criticized the lack of free throw opportunities for players like Scottie Barnes, whom he described as an All-Star-caliber player in the league. The coach’s frustration reached a boiling point as he repeatedly slapped the table for emphasis, questioning the fairness of the officiating.
