For the second time in his long career, LeBron James was sent off last night (Sunday through Monday) after hitting Isaiah Stewart in the face during the game between the Los Angeles Lakers and Detroit Pistons and causing a stir. After the winds calmed down a bit, the U.S. continued to address the unusual events.
“If we look at the move, we see that LeBron has backed down and is trying not to fall into the hands of Isaiah Stewart,” claimed Shams Charania, the Athletic reporter. “I was told that LeBron made it clear to Stuart, whether it happened on the floor or after the game was over, that the blow was unintentional. Moreover, LeBron tried to locate Stuart’s number again to apologize privately.”
“Although the league’s investigation has not yet begun, it will happen in the coming days,” said one of the league’s senior reporters. “Expect an announcement today or tomorrow. LeBron has no history of assaults, this is the second time he has been sent off, and I think the league will take that into account.”
Lakers coach Frank Vogel also referred to last night’s events in an interview with Yahoo: “We’re going to get each team its best punch every night anew. To me, that’s one of the things that can change a season’s momentum.”
Shams: “I’m told LeBron James did try to track down Isaiah Stewart’s number post-game to apologize again and let him know it was an inadvertent hit.”
(via @ShamsCharania, @PatMcAfeeShow) pic.twitter.com/O2OqolbQ6n
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) November 22, 2021