One of the biggest topics of discussion during this years NBA Playoffs has been the “hack-a-Shaq” strategy, with teams intentionally fouling the worst free throw shooter on the opposing team in an attempt to get the ball back.
Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich is known for using the “strategy” often during the playoffs, a strategy that has faced a lot of criticism as of late.
The NBA is considering of getting rid of the “hack-a-Shaq” strategy, something Popovich thinks that should stay.
“There will be a lot of discussion about the fouling, as there should be. But principle-wise, I feel really strongly that it’s a tactic that can be used,” Popovich said. “If someone can’t shoot free throws, that’s their problem. As I’ve said before, if we’re not allowed to do something to take advantage of a team’s weakness, a trade should be made before each game. ‘We won’t foul your guy, but you promise not to block any of our shots.’ Or, ‘We won’t foul your guy, and you allow us to shoot all uncontested shots.'”
Pop would continue to say:
“Now, visual-wise, it’s awful. It couldn’t be worse. I tend to side on the principle side where it’s basketball, and if we have a guy who can’t shoot and it’s an important part of the game, I should probably get him off the court. We’ll see how it comes out. I’m sure the way it looks will be discussed very seriously by the league.”
In their series with the Clippers that went seven games, the Spurs constantly fouled DeAndre Jordan who shot 40% from the line. While it worked in that sense, the Clippers would end up beating the Spurs in seven games.
