LeBron James’ home debut for the Los Angeles Lakers has been overshadowed by a confrontation late in the game which resulted in punches thrown and three ejections.
With under five minutes left in the game, the Rockets’ James Harden drove to the basket and was fouled by Brandon Ingram. Ingram took exception to Harden’s high elbow and pushed the reigning MVP.
The opposing veteran point guards, Chris Paul and Rajon Rondo, got into their own disagreement, which was sparked by what looked to be an eye-poke by Paul.
Players from both teams then swarmed into the melee, with Ingram leaping above the crowd with a punch to Paul’s face.
Paul, Ingram, and Rondo were ejected and will likely face further punishment.
The Houston Rockets eventually won the game 124-115, with Harden high-scoring with 36 points.
LeBron James had a relatively quiet night, scoring 24 points on 9-22 shooting.
The winless Lakers will now face the San Antonio Spurs on Tuesday (NZ time).
Newshub.
