It was a humbling experience for NBA star Lebron James on his return to Cleveland, as the LA Lakers were dumped 116-102 by his former franchise Cavaliers on Tuesday.
The Lakers who were on a high following consecutive wins in their last three were emphatically brought back to earth by the Cavs.
The ‘king’s return home’ was a disappointing night all around with James being restricted to under 30 points; bagging just 21 points to go with 17 assists, as he was out-shun by the city’s new prince Donavan Mitchell.
Mitchell knocked down a game-high 43 points six rebounds and, five assists in an inspired performance by the home team.
The Cavs were an imposing force on the night against a bewildered-looking Lakers team as they took three of the four quarters.
After claiming the first two quarters; 26-27 and 30-23, Cleveland returned to clinch the final period of play 31-19 after surrendering the third quarter 28-34.
The win Cavaliers’ 16th of the season consolidates their current number three spot in the Eastern Conference, one win behind the second-place Milwaukee Bucks, whom the Lakers ironically beat before last night’s loss.
The Lakers who saw their three-game win streak snapped stay lower end of the Western Conference with a 13th loss.