May 2, 2023 – the day when two of the biggest NBA stars, LeBron James and Stephen Curry, locked horns again. The last time they faced off at the playoffs was in the 2018 Finals. Los Angeles Lakers came out victorious from Game 1 of the best-of-seven series against the Golden State Warriors – thanks to Anthony Davis’ dominant performance.

Thankfully, they won or else fans would’ve been really disheartened, already stressed after King James‘ words for his former teammate before the match. The 19x All-Star has been an inspiration all his career for the basketball world. Over the years, the all-time leading scorer has given advice to many, but this time it was slightly different.

LeBron James addresses his former teammate

2016 NBA champion and former Cleveland Cavaliers player Tristan Thompson was acquired by the Lakers last month. Standing at 6’9″, Thompson is a veteran center, having considerable playoffs experience. The purple and gold were in need of a big man prior to their must-win play-in tournament, as a backup for Anthony Davis. So, they proceeded to sign him along with a defensive-minded point guard, Shaquille Harrison, to bolster their squad.

Though Harrison stepped onto the court for two minutes during Game 5 of the first-round series against the Memphis Grizzlies, Thompson hasn’t had a chance to play ball as a Laker till date. James perhaps noticed this and therefore gave him some advice prior to the Lakers’ game against the Warriors. According to Chris Haynes, an NBA insider for Bleacher Report, the all-time leading scorer asked his former teammate to “be prepared to dust the cobwebs off,” and play against the Warriors.

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The 19x All-Star definitely wanted to see his former teammate on the hardwood since he hasn’t played a single game since early 2022. However, coach Darvin Ham had other plans, after all. He eventually didn’t include Thompson in last night’s squad. Ham’s strategy worked out, though, as the Lakers secured a 117-112 win. So, only time will tell if the 2016 NBA champion will grace the hardwood this postseason, donning a beautiful purple and gold jersey.

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James’ advice to his teammate didn’t sit well with fans.

NBA buffs reflect on James’ advice

Fans chimed in on Twitter to share their thoughts as soon as the news was shared. Most of them felt that the Lakers would lose if Thompson plays.

Here are some responses:

A few users expressed confusion and wanted to know the reason Thompson should even play.

Some commented that Thompson shouldn’t play at any cost!

Do you think the Lakers would have lost if Tristan Thompson played last night against the Warriors? Share your views in the comments below!

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