TNT Used a Drone During Sixers-Celtics Game 2, and NBA Fans Instantly Loathed it

Sports networks always seem to be looking for new opportunities to keep things fresh on their broadcasts.

TNT, however, may have taken that directive too far Wednesday evening.

During Game 2 of the Eastern Conference semifinals between the 76ers and Celtics in Boston, the network flew a drone over the TD Garden floor to provide a supplemental camera angle. Additionally, the drone was clearly visible from the game’s main camera angle.

The picture displayed by the small craft was widely derided in social media, as was its presence in the main picture. The production distracted from a strong first-half performance by Boston, led by guard Jaylen Brown.

Viewers took to comparing the drone to some of Turner Sports’s more suspect aesthetic NBA playoff choices.

Some suggested the league was accidentally turning back the clock.

Philadelphia fans threatened to take matters into their own hands.

Still more questioned whether a postseason game was a time or place for experimentation.