The NBA playoffs really bring out the competitive side in people.

In 2020, LeBron James famously led the Lakers to the NBA title in a season massively disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

While Anthony Davis was great during that run, Alex Caruso was the breakout star. His two-way ability as a glue guy was proof that those types of players can flip an entire series — just as Caruso did.

Six years later and that competitive fire still burns deep inside James and Caruso. However, instead of teaming up to win another title, they’re battling on opposite sides.

And it got heated Thursday night.

With 22.2 seconds remaining in the third quarter and the Lakers trailing 92-80, cameras overhead an NSFW argument between James and Caruso while OKC’s Ajai Mitchell was shooting free throws.

Appearing to complain about the officiating — a very hot topic during the game and whenever the Thunder play — James began barking at Caruso, who fired right back.

The entire exchange was caught on camera.

James: “Every f–king call. No AC f–k that.”

Caruso: “I don’t give a f–k about none of that s–t.”

Bron: “AC I don’t want to hear that s–t.”

LEBRON AND ALEX CARUSO GOING AT IT:

Bron: “Every f*cking call. No AC f*ck that”

Caruso: “I don’t give a f*ck about none of that sh*t”

Bron: “AC I don’t want to hear that sh*t.”
pic.twitter.com/yLf1jDT5XY

— Hater Report (@HaterReport) May 8, 2026

Despite the 125-107 loss, James was sensational. He finished with 23 points (9-of-18 shooting), six rebounds, three steals and two assists.

Meanwhile, Caruso was his typical self when he finished with five points, four rebounds and four assists — but was a +17 in 22 minutes.

While these two still share a special bond, Thursday night was proof that previous relationships go out the window in the heat of playoff competition.

With the Lakers trailing 2-0, Game 3 is Saturday night in Los Angeles at 5:30 p.m. PT.

---

Download The California Post App, follow us on social, and subscribe to our newsletters