Los Angeles Lakers: D’Angelo Russell ends playoff streak of LeBron James

LeBron James showed a competitive spirit not seen in weeks

Maybe LeBron James was embarrassed being called out by Walt Frazier. Maybe he watched sports talk shows rain criticisms on his game and commitment. Maybe the Doc Rivers rumored reason that included him as uncoachable made him stay on as Clippers coach caused a stir.

Whatever the reason, LeBron James actually came to the arena and played some basketball. LeBron did not shoot well in this game but he did contribute 25 points, 9 rebounds and 14 assists. Out of those 14 assists that he collected, at least ten of those led to JaVale McGee baskets which most were dunks.

What impressed me the most was that he played on the defensive end of the floor. 

When was the last time anyone saw this from LeBron James…not in a Lakers uniform but period?

https://twitter.com/SportsCenter/status/1109306017475674118

LeBron James threw a bad pass that was picked off by D’Angelo Russell, but instead of slumping his shoulders, he ran back down the court and channeled that 2016 dude that blocked Andre Iguodala’s shot in Game 7 of the NBA Finals.

Sure he shot only 8-for-25 and missed four free throws in the 4th quarter. But how many nights, did he just coast along just to get stats and make the box score look good?

Plus, when the game was close, LeBron James played way past the minutes restriction. When he fell at the end of the game and banged his knee, he finished the game out.

In short, for the first time in weeks, LeBron James showed some heart.

I know what some Lakers fans are wondering.