Lebron James and Tristan Thompson get heated (video)

Cleveland Cavaliers players LeBron James and Tristan Thompson jaw back and forth late into their second overtime period against the Indiana Pacers.

LeBron James has built a reputation for being a vicious leader verbally and physically. James has shown the ability to lead by example, but also lead by getting on his teammates verbally, too. For the latter, it’s been rare to see a teammate bark back at James. But tonight, Tristan Thompson decided to bark up that tree to surprising results.

James and his fellow Cavaliers teammates were locked in a divisional battle with the Indiana Pacers where the Pacers pushed the game to double overtime. Late in the period, with the game appearing locked up, James and Thompson became engaged in a heated exchange. Although the Cavaliers would eventually win the game 135-130, the exchange could leave a bitter taste in the mouth of public opinion.  Or, public opinion could be proud of Thompson.

James ended the night with a monster game as he continues to pace toward the playoffs, scoring 41 points, 16 rebounds and 11 assists. But, many could commend Thompson for finally standing up to James and his aggressive-on-court behavior. James has long manipulated and passive-aggressively controlled teammates for years. His teammates, perhaps intimidated by his stature (pun intended) would just fall in line. Thompson decided to bark back, but that shows growth on not only Thompson but the team, as well.

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Granted, we have no idea what goes on in the Cavaliers or any NBA locker room. Thompson and others may go shot for shot with James on a verbal tip consistently. But we never get a glimpse of those exchanges on TV in front of our eyes. If Thompson going at James in private isn’t the case, kudos to him for doing so in public.