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Heading into Game 3 of the first round of the NBA Playoffs between the Los Angeles Lakers and Memphis Grizzlies, many were watching the matchup between LeBron James and Dillon Brooks.
In Memphis’ Game 2 win on Wednesday, Brooks jawed at James, then called him “old” during the postgame press conference.
Buy Lakers TicketsThe Lakers came out with a vengeance in Game 3, establishing a massive early lead. James played well offensively, but Brooks struggled to hit shots as the Crypto.com Arena jeered him at every chance.
Just moments into the third quarter, Brooks hit James in the groin and was called for a flagrant 2 foul, which led to his ejection.
Dillon Brooks was ejected after receiving a flagrant 2 for this hit to LeBron. pic.twitter.com/LL9CLRAryy
— ESPN (@espn) April 23, 2023
This is a major loss for Memphis, as Brooks has been their main defender versus James throughout the series, as well as their main antagonist.