DENVER – A technical foul assessed to Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Dončić and a debated inbounds call involving the Denver Nuggets were key points of discussion following the Lakers’ game against the Nuggets on March 5, 2026. Crew Chief Ed Malloy addressed both situations in a post-game pool report.

Dončić’s Technical Foul Explained

The technical foul called on Dončić stemmed from using profanity directed towards a referee, according to Malloy. The timing of the call, which appeared to come after a transition possession, raised questions. Malloy clarified the reasoning behind the delay, stating, We are trained not to stop an offensive transition when calling a technical foul on the defense. This protocol ensures the flow of the game isn’t unnecessarily disrupted.

Nuggets Inbounds Play Controversy

Late in the second quarter, a potential turnover on a Nuggets inbounds pass initially appeared to grant possession to the Lakers. Though, play was stopped, and the Nuggets were granted another opportunity to inbound the ball. Malloy explained the decision, stating that Nikola Jokić never had control of the ball out of bounds, therefore it was not a legal throw in. The ruling hinged on whether Jokić established legal possession before the ball went out of bounds.

Looking Ahead

These officiating decisions are sure to be talking points as the Lakers continue their season. The league consistently emphasizes the importance of clear and consistent officiating, and Malloy’s explanations offer insight into the rationale behind these specific calls.