During the 76ers’ playoff game against the Raptors, Philadelphia star James Harden got away with taking six steps between dribbles.
James Harden already has a bit of a reputation for traveling. Like many stars in this NBA era, Harden gets away with an additional step or two often.
During Game 1 of the NBA Playoffs series versus Toronto, Harden set a new record for carrying.
And the refs let him do it.
James Harden was able to get away with the worst travel of all time
Count your steps. At half court, Harden picked up his dribble at the top of the front of the 76ers logo and didn’t put it down until he was at the key.
Were the referees even looking at the guy with the ball? Didn’t they notice how out of place the entire movement was? It was obvious from the broadcast view, but not from the floor, it appeared.
To be fair to the officials, it’s possible that the carry was so outrageous that the official couldn’t believe his eyes. It almost appeared to be an optical illusion. almost.
For what it’s worth, the missed call didn’t have much of an impact on the game’s outcome. For the most part, Philadelphia was in command of the game. They led by 18 points at halftime and maintained that lead comfortably in the second half.
Harden had 22 points, five rebounds, 14 assists, a steal, a block, and only one turnover.
Raptors fans will undoubtedly want officials to pay more attention in the next game. If it happens again, the consequences could be far-reaching.
