The game between the Los Angeles Lakers and Detroit Pistons appeared initially to be a modest affair, with the Lakers expected to defeat the floundering Pistons. But in the aftermath, it has become one of the most talked-about games in recent memory.
During the game, LeBron James hit Isaiah Thomas in the face with a clubbing blow. There is still debate about whether the hit was intentional or not. Regardless of intent, the hit caused Stewart to bleed.
Furious with the contact, Stewart tried to fight LeBron James, which sparked a gigantic brawl between the two teams. And James’ teammates immediately came to his aid and defended him, as things looked to escalate.
Anthony Davis even came out and stood up for LeBron after the game, saying that it was uncharacteristic and unintentional and that LeBron James is not a dirty player in the NBA.
Kendrick Perkins asked for comparisons with ‘The Malice at the Palace’ to stop, but said that the Lakers’ late-game rally will actually be the start of them coming together and stepping up their performances on the court. And they will find their chemistry after being ready to fight for each other against the Pistons.
Kill all that Malice at the Palace Part 2 talk. This is the game that brings them together and wakes up the monster. Carry on…
— Kendrick Perkins (@KendrickPerkins) November 22, 2021
Kill all that Malice at the Palace Part 2 talk. This is the game that brings them together and wakes up the monster. Carry on…
The brawl broke out at a time where the Los Angeles Lakers were actually losing in the game. But the brawl gave them the motivation to make a comeback, and get an all-important win while breaking a 3-game losing streak. Russell Westbrook stepped up with 26 points and 10 assists, while Anthony Davis had 30 points and 5 blocks.
Carmelo Anthony came out after the game and said that the Lakers needed that win to light a fire under them and give them additional motivation going forward into the season. If the Lakers can use the events of the game to turn their season around, then it will be looked at as the pivotal moment of their season.
