LeBron James gave Devin Booker an autographed jersey after Suns beat Lakers (Photos)

LeBron James gave Devin Booker a signed jersey after his Phoenix Suns advanced on Thursday over his Los Angeles Lakers in Game 6.

After the Phoenix Suns knocked the Los Angeles Lakers out of the NBA Playoffs on Thursday in Game 6, Lakers superstar LeBron James gave Phoenix guard Devin Booker an autographed jersey.

Booker had a game-high 46 points in the Suns’ 113-100 series-clinching victory. Phoenix has been one of the best teams in the NBA since the qualifying portion of the Orlando bubble last summer. While the Suns did not make the playoffs a year ago, they have slayed King James’ team and may have what it takes to win their first NBA Finals in franchise history. They are that good.

Here is what James had to say about Booker’s ascension towards superstardom with Phoenix.

LeBron James gave an autographed Los Angeles Lakers jersey to Devin Booker

It may not be 100 percent a true passing of the torch in the Western Conference, but James has seen enough out of Booker the last few years playing in the same Pacific Division. Booker’s rise to prominence has been amazing. We knew he could get buckets at Kentucky, but who saw him becoming an All-NBA-level player on one of the best teams in the Western Conference this fast?

While James has to reevaluate how many more great years he has left in the tank, Booker and the Suns have their title window open. Though it feels like this team is a year away, to knock out the best player in the game today in the first round is nothing short of an amazing accomplishment. It may have taken a few years, but Booker has the respect of anybody who truly matters in the NBA.

James showing his respect to Booker and his elevated level of play is nothing to scoff at.