Controversial Ejection Puts NBA Referee Under Fire in Lakers Playoff Game
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An NBA referee landed at the center of fresh postseason controversy on April 27, 2026, after abruptly ejecting Los Angeles Lakers center Deandre Ayton during a playoff matchup.
The unexpected decision, described as “shocking” by on-court observers, halted play and sparked immediate confusion among players and coaches. Ayton, who had been battling inside for a rebound, was assessed a technical foul and then tossed moments later, leaving the Lakers without their starting big man for the remainder of the contest.
The incident marked the latest in a series of high-profile playoff disputes involving the same official, intensifying scrutiny of league officiating at a critical point in the postseason.
Source: New York Post
