That's just empty spin.

If you want to foul, foul harder and make sure there won't be an AND-1. Lin clearly realized his own mistake, and tried to pull away in the last second. But the foul was there.

It is a stupid play. It happens. Admit it and move on. Spin and explain, only makes it worse. There is no 坏事变好事。If he doesn't admit the mistake, he will make it again next time. It didn't burn them last night, but it might burn them next time.

There is no "saving face" in high competitive sports.