2014pace
Hack-a-Shaq Initial Modifications
The Rule Change
The NBA made its first targeted modifications to address the 'Hack-a-Shaq' strategy of intentionally fouling poor free-throw shooters away from the ball. Off-ball fouls in the last two minutes of any quarter now resulted in one free throw plus possession for the fouled team's offense.
Statistical Impact
Partially addressed the entertainment problem of deliberate fouling but left the strategy viable for the first 46 minutes of the game. Teams continued to hack players like DeAndre Jordan and Andre Drummond in non-restricted periods. The rule was a half-measure that would be strengthened in 2017.
3-Year Average: Before vs. After
| Stat | Before | After | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| PPG | 98.0 | 101.2 | +3.2 |
| Pace | 91.8 | 94.5 | +2.7 |
| 3PA | 18.8 | 22.7 | +3.9 |
| FTA | 23.0 | 23.3 | +0.3 |
| FG% | 45.3 | 45.2 | -0.1 |