The Lakers and the Memphis Grizzlies played over 13 minutes in the third quarter on Friday due to a clock error that was not noticed until after the game. The NBA confirmed the error, stating that the game clock was inaccurately set during the third quarter of the game. Unfortunately, this mistake occurred at the end of a season where the Lakers played a total of 82 regular-season games, including an extra game in the in-season tournament.
The error was not identified in time to correct it during the game, and it only came to light on social media the following day. However, despite this setback, the Lakers have an opportunity to secure the No. 8 seed in the Western Conference by winning their final regular-season game against the New Orleans Pelicans. Depending on how many teams tie for fifth place in their respective conferences, there may be additional playoff spots available.
If they win their next game against New Orleans, they will solidify their position as fifth place in their conference and earn a first-round playoff spot. Alternatively, if they lose and another team wins or ties for fifth place, they could find themselves out of playoff contention altogether. Therefore, every point counts as they head into their final week of action.
The results of several other games could also impact how many teams qualify for playoffs or seeding positions if they lose to New Orleans. For example, if both Phoenix and Sacramento win their last games against Timberwolves and Kings respectively while Golden State loses to Utah Jazz then Lakers will face Phoenix Suns while losing seeding points but securing playoffs berth.
In conclusion, although there are still uncertainties surrounding seeding positions for Lakers heading into their final week of action with this clock error incident happening at such crucial stage might seem like a daunting task but with determination and focus on winning each game one by one they can still make it to Playoffs while securing better position than before
