The New York Knicks narrowly defeated the Detroit Pistons in a dramatic Game 4, taking a 3-1 series lead. However, the game was marred by a controversial no-call on a foul against Tim Hardaway Jr. at the game’s conclusion. With just over a second on the clock, Hardaway was fouled on a three-point attempt, a fact acknowledged by the game officials after reviewing the play. Had the foul been called, Hardaway, an 85% free-throw shooter, would have had three shots to potentially tie the series.

The Knicks' Jalen Brunson has been criticized for his style of foul-baiting, receiving several questionable calls throughout the series. Comparatively, Hardaway's shot was deemed a natural shooting motion, while Brunson's methods have sparked debate regarding their legitimacy. This disparity in officiating has added to the Pistons' frustration, leaving them feeling as though a pivotal playoff game was unfairly taken from them.