The Memphis Grizzlies press-challenged LeBron James. Before the playoffs, Dillon Brooks said he wanted to play the Los Angeles Lakers and knock James out "right away.
" Brooks called James ancient after the Grizzlies won Game 2, saying he doesn't "respect anyone until they come and give me 40."
On Friday, James' team did so. Game 6 ended with the Lakers leading the Grizzlies 125-85. James left before the end. James exited the tunnel alone with 14.1 seconds left on the clock.
After a team is eliminated, players usually shake hands and discuss the series. It's unofficial. Reasons can be mundane or deep grudges.
After multiple devastating losses, Michael Jordan overcame the Detroit Pistons in 1991.James' early exit is unclear.
"This is not my first rodeo," he said, declining to publicly criticize the Grizzlies during the series.
James will relax for three days before his Lakers play the Sacramento Kings or Golden State Warriors in the second round.