LOS ANGELES — The Warriors’ first-round series with the Clippers has been defined by Golden State’s record 31-point choke, Kevin Durant’s showdown with Patrick Beverley, his merciless Game 3, and whistles.
So many whistles.
Playoff basketball is a different game — one where the physicality and intensity on both ends of the court reaches new levels — but apparently, the referees for this series are upping their game as well.
Warriors and Clippers are Nos. 1 and 2 in the NBA in fouls per game this postseason. It’s a small sample size, but the Warriors have been called for six more fouls per game than went against them in the regular season and eight more per game, compared to last year’s postseason.