DeAndre Jordan has been instrumental for the Los Angeles Clippers all season long – particularly on the defensive end – but his inability to hit free throws against the San Antonio Spurs in the playoffs could be detrimental enough to cost his team the series if he continues to stay on the floor while Gregg Popovich employs the Hack-A-Jordan strategy.
Jordan had impressive numbers overall with 21 points, 14 rebounds and two blocks in a crucial Game 5, but missed nine-of-16 free throws in a game the Clippers lost by four points. Ultimately, the strategy to intentionally put Jordan on the line put them in a funk offensively and on Tuesday, it was enough for the Spurs to take a commanding 3-2 lead in the series.
Bill Simmons, who was in attendance at the Staples Center, monitored the situation and had this to say about DeAndre Jordan’s missed free throws and the reaction of Steve Ballmer:
Steve Ballmer was just looking at Deandre with an “I don’t know if I want to pay 120 million to watch him miss 5 years of free throws” look.
— Bill Simmons (@BillSimmons) April 29, 2015
Jim Park is a blogger and editor of Sheridan Hoops. Follow him on twitter @SheridanBlog.