LeBron Furious After No Call Costs Lakers vs Bucks

LeBron James vented about the officiating after the Lakers’ 105-101 loss to the Bucks, even posting an Instagram photo showing what looked like a missed foul on a late drive that Giannis blocked with 39.2 seconds left. The NBA’s Last Two Minute Report ruled the no-call correct. The game featured a striking free throw gap, 22 for Milwaukee to 14 for L.A., and when asked if officiating affected the team’s rhythm LeBron replied, "Um… I don't know." Merlin sees a good record hiding real warts. At 23-13 the Lakers sit with a No. 17 net rating and a 21st-ranked defense, and a 4-6 slide hints at regression. An easier stretch versus Sacramento, Atlanta and Charlotte gives time to reset. If defense tightens and foul parity returns, the record will hold; if not, late-game luck and calls will keep deciding outcomes.