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Previously, if a foul occurred away-from-the-play in the last
two minutes of the fourth quarter or overtime, it resulted in
one free throw and possession of the ball. That rule has been
extended to apply to the last two minutes of all quarters.
Intentionally fouling poor free throw shooters has become a
frequent strategy of the game, an often criticized one, and the
rule tweak will limit the opportunities for teams to employ that
ploy.
Frequently employed against former Lakers center Shaquille
O'Neal, the strategy went on to be known as 'Hack-a-Shaq'.
"In looking at the data and numerous potential solutions to
combat the large increase in deliberate away-from-the-play foul
situations, we believe these steps offer the most measured
approach," Kiki VanDeWeghe, NBA Executive Vice President,
Basketball Operations said in a statement.
"The introduction of these new rules is designed to curb the
increase in such fouls without eliminating the strategy
entirely." Additionally, on inbounds plays, a defensive foul
before the ball is thrown in will also be subject to one free
throw and possession.
Flagrant foul rules were also adjusted and will now
automatically be in effect for any dangerous or excessive
deliberate fouls. Previously, these types of fouls were subject
to being called flagrant but were not automatic.
(Writing by Jahmal Corner in Los Angeles; Editing by Amlan
Chakraborty)
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