Ever since the change in foul call rules, NBA players have spoken against it. Bad officiating has been a frequent complaint from the players as they do not get calls. Some of the famous players to go through this are the likes of James Harden and Trae Young.

In the Brooklyn Nets’ recent matchup with the Houston Rockets, Harden almost had a bad injury but did not receive a foul call.

Harden has popularized himself for his ability to draw fouls. It was at the full display when he played for the Rockets. However, since the change in rules, things have changed for the ‘Beard’. His offensive numbers have seen a major downgrade and many blame this rule change for it.

However, there have been some unfair moments for Harden which may stem from his prior reputation of getting fouls often.

In a play against the Rockets, Harden almost had an ankle injury after taking a shot. However, that was not enough for the referees to call the foul.

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James Harden near injury doesn’t convince referees

A Nets team without Kevin Durant is taking on the Houston Rockets tonight. Brooklyn has struggled on the offensive end and sees themselves down in the game. However, in an effort to get back in the game, Harden tried to add three points to the tally.

He missed the shot but went down right after as he landed on Tate’s foot after the shot. Despite him not lunging into Tate, the referees were not convinced and did not give the ‘Beard’ the benefit of the doubt.

While there was no intention of committing a foul, such calls generally go in the favor of the offensive player. However, for Harden this has been the story of his season so far. He isn’t the only one who thinks that is the case though.

Trail Blazers’ Damian Lillard also spoke about the officiating and how it is not acceptable.

Harden is definitely feeling the effects of the rule change. His free throw attempts have gone down by almost 5 since his 2020 season with the Rockets. This has affected the Beard’s point generation as he averages 20.7 points, which is his lowest since joining the Houston Rockets.

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It is clear that the officiating is declining in some places and the league needs to take a look at it. Do you think Harden deserved a foul call? Let us know in the comments below.