Flopping has become a growing concern in the NBA, and during Thursday night's Game 2 between the Los Angeles Lakers and Oklahoma City Thunder, Prime Video analyst Stan Van Gundy didn't hold back in calling out a clear example. In the first quarter, Thunder star big man Chet Holmgren hit the deck hard after a routine post-up attempt from Lakers center Deandre Ayton, drawing an offensive foul call. The Lakers, led by JJ Redick, immediately challenged the decision.
"They may determine that he pushed him off, but this is a big-time acting job by Chet Holmgren," Van Gundy said as replays aired. "He did not get hit anywhere near the throat or the face, above the shoulders. That's an absolute flop. I hope they don't give him this call, because we need to get rid of the flops. The way to do it is to not give guys calls."
The replay showed Holmgren clutching his face after minimal contact, and Van Gundy's frustration was palpable. Even Prime Video play-by-play announcer Ian Eagle couldn't resist a jab: "I've seen Chet in a number of commercials, and there is acting ability." Van Gundy replied, "Well, I'll tell you what—he showed it right there."
After review, the call was overturned to a defensive foul on Holmgren, with referee John Goble noting the foul occurred "prior to contact to the face." Van Gundy wasn't satisfied: "Well, I'm glad they got that call right and didn't give him the call. The only thing I'd argue with—there was no contact to the face. At any point, ever. Not before or after he grabbed his arm."
As a former longtime NBA coach, Van Gundy's honest commentary is always a highlight. The Thunder went on to win 125-107, taking a 2-0 series lead, but the flop controversy served as a reminder of the league's ongoing battle with embellishment on the court. For fans, it's a moment that underscores the need for authenticity in the game—something we all love to see, both on the hardwood and in the gear we wear.
