LeBron James Reacts to RJ Barrett’s Game-Winning Shot Against Cavaliers

News ArticlePublishedMay 02, 2026 at 12:56 PM EDTBy Cole SullivanThe Los Angeles Lakers concluded their first-round series against the Houston Rockets on Friday night with a 98–78 victory, setting up what was expected to be a second-round matchup against the Oklahoma City Thunder potentially beginning on Sunday.However, with both the Detroit Pistons and Toronto Raptors forcing Game 7s in their respective series, the Lakers’ matchup with OKC will now not begin until Tuesday. Detroit overcame a 22-point halftime deficit to defeat the Orlando Magic, while Raptors guard RJ Barrett delivered a dramatic game-winner that bounced high off the rim before dropping in to secure a 112–110 victory for Toronto. More news: Rockets’ Jabari Smith Jr. Makes Bold Claim Before Lakers Playoff ClashMore news: Celtics Confirm Jayson Tatum’s Status With Game 7 Injury ReportThe Lakers game was the last game to finish Friday night, so L.A. knew heading into the contest that if they won, they would already have avoided playing Sunday, which for 41-year-old LeBron James is a very big deal, and he certainly acknowledged it postgame.“Thank you, Toronto. Thank you, RJ Barrett. I appreciate it," James said. "Haven’t seen a shot in Toronto like that since Kawhi. There’s something