There is no doubt that playoff basketball is often more physical than regular season basketball. Referees often call fewer minor fouls and just allow players to play the game. On the defensive end, that means that the defender is often allowed to be more physical with the offensive player, though obviously, there are some limits to that very physicality.
Steve Nash has recently commented on the defense being played on Kevin Durant by P. J. Tucker and claimed that it went beyond the realm of normal physicality that is being played. Whatever Tucker did worked though, as Kevin Durant didn’t have the best night from the field. Obviously, we love to see good defense being played, but sometimes the line simply gets crossed.
"I thought it was borderline non-basketball physical at times."
– Steve Nash on PJ Tucker’s defense on Kevin Durant
(h/t @BenGolliver ) pic.twitter.com/6Jm0m1pEt5
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) June 13, 2021
There is a fine line between what acceptable and non-acceptable concept is. Of course, stars expect some physicality, especially in the playoffs, but it is also up to the referees to protect the offensive player from getting hurt. While Nash’s complaint may simply be standing up for his superstar, it is something to take note of. Hopefully, there will be fair play throughout the rest of the series.
