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USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

Ben Simmons of the Brooklyn Nets produced a moment that sent shockwaves across the world of basketball. During the thrilling preseason matchup between two great NBA teams, the 3x All-Star’s move had the fans in awe. After a layup that had fans roaring, Simmons unleashed a burst of speed and had an explosive stare-down against the Los Angeles Lakers star.

However, the preseason match was action-packed, and the thrilling showdown between Simmons and LeBron James stole the show.

Ben Simmons shows the King a new contender for the throne

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Ben Simmons demonstrated his explosive athleticism early in the first quarter by driving past none other than LeBron James. Simmons leaped to the basket and scored with lightning-quick agility, setting the tone for the Nets’ attack. What drew everyone’s attention was his bold stare down with King James as they walked back down the court.

The stare-down between Simmons and 4x NBA Champion was intense. It was a statement from him and the Nets that they are ready to compete at the top level, even in the preseason. The brief but powerful conversation between these two stars provided a new level of intrigue to an already exciting clash.

The 27-year-old point guard did not stop at the stare-down. He proceeded to dazzle with his performance, scoring 10 points and providing three assists in only 14 minutes of action. His versatility and ability to affect both sides of the floor were on full display, reminding fans why he’s regarded as one of the league’s best players. While Simmons and LeBron grabbed headlines, it was Cam Thomas, the Nets’ rookie shooting guard, who led the game in scoring with 26 points. Thomas showed off his scoring ability and hinted at a promising future in the league.

Read More: 9 Days After Mocking Ben Simmons’ $177,243,360 Contract, Shaquille O’Neal Endorses 3x All-Star’s Vow

Both clubs were missing important players from the preseason game. Brooklyn forwards Cameron Johnson and Dariq Whitehead sat out due to game-time choices. While the Lakers were without an extensive list of players, including Jarryd Vanderbilt, Cam Reddish, Vincent Valerio-Bodon, Damion Baugh, and Scotty Pippen Jr. However, the team managed to win their preseason game against the Brooklyn Nets.

Stars shining in the preseason sky!

The Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Brooklyn Nets 129-126 in a preseason game that had fans on the edge of their seats. The game featured outstanding performances by former Ohio State point player D’Angelo Russell, budding star Austin Reaves, and the Lakers’ youthful talent.

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D’Angelo Russell, who battled in the playoffs in 2023, made an indelible mark with his performance. In only 16 minutes, he ended with 14 points and a game-high six assists. Russell’s excellent shooting, including 4-5 from beyond the arc, and toughness on defense, were crucial to the Lakers’ victory.

USA Today via Reuters

With a spectacular performance, Austin Reaves, the Lakers’ rookie guard, demonstrated his breakaway potential. He scored 18 points on only seven field goal attempts. Reaves participated in a back-and-forth shootout with the Nets’ Cam Thomas during a dramatic third quarter, enthralling spectators with his scoring skills.

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Coming off the bench, Rui Hachimura led the Lakers in scoring with 19 points. He provided a major offensive lift with his deadly combination of superb post movement and great mid-range shooting touch. With these encouraging performances, Lakers supporters have every cause to be optimistic about the next season.

Watch this Story: Having Ditched 40 Nets Games, Ben Simmons Confesses Harsh Truth on Reviving Ailing NBA Career: “I Did What I Could”