Lakers star explains his viral reaction to LeBron setting NBA record
Los Angeles Lakers forward Anthony Davis wanted to set the record straight. In the third quarter of Tuesday’s game against the Oklahoma City Thunder, Davis was seemingly unfazed by teammate LeBron James breaking the NBA’s all-time scoring record.
James broke Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s iconic milestone with a mid-range fadeaway over Thunder forward Kenrich Williams. As fans at Crypto.com Arena erupted, Davis was seen not celebrating the moment with teammates.
REACTIONS: How the sports world reacted to LeBron’s historic night
NEXT UP: Who could pass LeBron James on the NBA all-time scoring list?
Davis addressed the situation on Thursday. He denied being unsupportive of James or his historic accomplishment. Instead, Davis relayed that his despondent mood was the result of the team’s struggles on the court.
Follow every game: Latest NBA Scores and Schedules
‘It’s about the game,’ Davis told reporters, via ESPN. ‘I mean, we’re losing to the Oklahoma City Thunder, a game we needed. And I was pissed off that we were losing. It’s that simple. It’s nothing that has to do with Bron. He knows that. Everybody else is outside looking in, it’s their opinion. But I was pissed off that we were losing the game.’
In the moment, he had just returned to the Lakers bench after releasing some frustrations in the tunnel. Davis later apologized to James in person and during a team walkthrough as well.
James took the situation in stride. TNT broadcast cameras provided in-game audio of James showing love to Davis during the game.
‘I love you,’ James told Davis. ‘I’ll just let you know I love you, bro. That’s all I want you to know.’
The Lakers look to make a playoff run in the second half of the season with help on the way as well.
The Lakers acquired point guard D’Angelo Russell, combo guard Malik Beasley and forward Jarred Vanderbilt in a three-team deal at the NBA trade deadline. They also added backup center Mo Bamba from the Orlando Magic.
The new-look roster will be back in action on Saturday night against the Golden State Warriors.