LeBron James Draws Charge After Absorbing Violent Zion Williamson Hit

Karl Rasmussen | Apr 16, 2024

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James draws a charge on Zion Williamson. / Screenshot via Hoop Central on X

The play-in tournament battle between the New Orleans Pelicans and Los Angeles Lakers was a physical one, as the two sides fought to secure the No. 7 seed in the Western Conference playoff bracket.

One moment between Zion Williamson and LeBron James during the third quarter perfectly encapsulated the physical nature of the game, with the former coming up with a huge play on defense.

As Williamson drove hard to the basket, James attempted to take a charge and win possession back for his team. The result saw two of the biggest bodies in the league collide, with James getting lifted off his feet as he was launched backwards before landing hard on the ground. The 39-year-old could be seen grabbing at his elbow, appearing to be in some discomfort afterwards, though he remained in the game.

sacrament-inducing. https://t.co/RIaTje5LMx pic.twitter.com/UAusou9FQS

— Rob Perez (@WorldWideWob) April 17, 2024

James paid the price for putting his body on the line for his team. Not many players would be quite so willing to step in front of a surging Williamson at full speed, but James didn't hesitate to step up into the lane.

That wasn't the only high-octane interaction between the two stars, as earlier in the game Williamson pulled a page out of James's book with a massive block off the backboard.

ZION BLOCKS LEBRON. 🔒

pic.twitter.com/JPkwHUjCsE

— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) April 17, 2024

James later shook Williamson off with some devastating footwork, freeing himself up for an open look at the basket.

LEBRON PUT THE MOVES ON ZION 🔥 pic.twitter.com/2xKplzSzyZ

— NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) April 17, 2024

James and Williamson were going back and forth all night, with both players making some big-time plays as they battle for the No. 7 seed.