The Los Angeles Lakers nearly triggered early-season terror among their supporters on Thursday night when they struggled at home against the depleted Phoenix Suns. However, they were given the lift they required by the stars. The 100-95 triumph was sealed by the dominant play of Anthony Davis (30 points and 12 rebounds) and the late-game heroics of LeBron James, who sparked a newfound excitement among NBA fans.

James drove full speed at the hoop, showing the same dogged determination and brute strength that had stunned fans for two decades. With 41 seconds left, he gave LA a four-point advantage with a vicious drive that effectively froze the game. The all-time leader in scoring finished with 21 points (10 in the fourth quarter), 9 dimes, 8 boards, 2 steals, and 2 blocks.

“Don’t take LeBron James for granted,” Kevin O’Connor wrote on The Ringer. There was a widespread trend of people admiring the four-time winner.

Without Devin Booker and Bradley Beal, Kevin Durant led the Suns and decisively outplayed LeBron James for the majority of the game. 

Fans will never stop criticizing the Lakers, but victories like this will teach them patience. There will be ups and downs in the Western Conference, but LeBron James’ experience and basketball IQ will keep the Lakers competitive.

Time is running out, but he may yet pull a few last-minute surprises. The Sacramento Kings will provide James, Davis, and the Lakers with another formidable opponent on Sunday.It was their first confrontation in four and a half years. He had a great game with 39 points and 11 boards, but his fellow Hall of Famer stole the show in the final minutes.