The NBA spun Hack-a-Shaq strategies as a relatively limited issue – with about half the fouls going against DeAndre Jordan.
But that’s becoming an increasingly difficult case to make.
Kevin Pelton of ESPN:
Missed this milestone: as of Monday, I've recorded more hacks this season (165) than the entire 2014-15 regular season (164).
— Kevin Pelton (@kpelton) December 23, 2015
Pelton has done fantastic research into Hack-a-Shaq, and I highly recommend his latest article on the issue to anyone with ESPN Insider.
It’s stunning that the NBA 2015-16 season – barely a third complete – has already produced more Hack-a-Shaqs than all of last season. Hacking away from the ball became more prevalent in last season’s playoffs, but it won’t be long until this season passes last season’s combined total.
The NBA should act on this epidemic.
A relatively limited use of the strategy was fascinating, and fans didn’t turn away. I’d be surprised if that’s still the case. It’s just too boring to watch players repeatedly walk to the free-throw line, stagnating and lengthening the game.
It doesn’t matter whether the foul shooter is good or bad. In fact, there’s more drama with a poor shooter.
It’s just not basketball at its finest.
The NBA has thrilling offense and captivating defenses. The league would do itself a serving by ensuring those are on display – not a parade of free throws produced by non-basketball plays.
