A regular-season game in Los Angeles turned into a social media flashpoint.
Dave Portnoy publicly criticized LeBron James on Friday night, accusing the Los Angeles Lakers star of flopping during a matchup against the LA Clippers and comparing him to Michael Jordan.
The moment came during the Lakers’ 125-122 win. In the third quarter, James appeared to take contact to the ribs and fell to the floor, leading to a brief stoppage in play.
Shortly after, Portnoy shared the clip online and labeled James “the greatest flop artist of all time.” He added that “MJ would never.”
The post quickly surpassed 290,000 views, triggering divided reactions. Some fans backed the criticism.
Others pointed to the visible elbow contact and defended the four-time champion. James has not publicly responded.
The numbers complicate the Jordan debate
Whenever Michael Jordan enters the conversation, the numbers matter.
According to official NBA career data, Jordan averaged 8.2 free throw attempts per game. James averages 7.5. The statistical gap is not significant, which complicates claims that one benefited dramatically more from officiating.
The league has also tightened its stance on exaggeration. Beginning in the 2023-24 NBA season, officials were empowered to issue in-game technical fouls for flopping. The rule change allows referees to penalize embellishment immediately rather than relying solely on postgame fines.
The NBA’s decision reflects ongoing concern about the perception of exaggerated contact, especially in a social media era where clips circulate instantly and in slow motion.
“Commitment to being the greatest flop artist of all time is almost worthy respecting. MJ would never…
What actually happened on the court
While the debate gained traction online, the result mattered more for the standings.
The Lakers improved to 34-21, holding fifth place in the Western Conference according to official league data. Luka Doni led the way with 38 points and 11 assists. Austin Reaves added 29 points on efficient shooting.
James finished with 13 points, 11 assists and three rebounds on 5-for-13 shooting. Now in his 23rd NBA season, he is averaging 21.7 points, 7.2 assists and 5.7 rebounds.
For the Clippers, Kawhi Leonard scored 31 points in the loss.
Why the moment carries weight
LeBron’s career has unfolded under constant comparison to Jordan. Every new clip feeds that discussion.
Analysts across major sports networks have frequently noted that drawing contact is part of modern offensive strategy. At the same time, the league’s updated enforcement shows that the NBA is actively trying to preserve competitive integrity.
The Lakers now prepare for a marquee matchup against the Boston Celtics on Sunday, a game with playoff implications.
Online debates may flare up overnight, but inside the locker room, the focus remains on positioning, health and momentum as the postseason approaches.
Game statistics and season averages verified via official NBA.com box scores and career data. Rule updates referenced from official NBA announcements regarding the 2023-24 flopping enforcement changes.
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