The Los Angeles Dodgers are moving on to the NLCS after dispatching the San Francisco Giants in what ended up being a controversial Game 5.

The Dodgers wouldn't have gotten to this point without a couple of clutch hits at the top of the ninth inning courtesy of Gavin Lux and Cody Bellinger. But apparently Lux already predicted the outcome the night before, with a little homage to all-time Lakers duo Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O'Neal.

“I sent Cody Bellinger a gif last night of Kobe throwing an alley-oop to Shaq. I said that’s me to you tomorrow night,” said Lux.

While he didn't specify which alley-oop exactly, more than likely it was from the Lakers' epic Game 7 victory against the Portland Trail Blazers in the 2000 Western Conference Finals.

RECOMMENDED (Article Continues Below)
Lakers vs. Nuggets Game 3 Results Simulated With NBA 2K24

Massimo Marchiano ·

Cubs' Cody Bellinger with a quote bubble and talking head emojis, first aid kits

Jason Patt ·

Darvin Ham coaching the Lakers with money raining down.

Spencer See ·

That play sealed the series win for the Lakers, propelling them to the NBA Finals and eventually a title. Perhaps the Lux to Bellinger combo can draw some of the same magic en route to a repeat?

Lux may not be able to directly dish a pass off to Bellinger, but he did set the table for him to have a runner in scoring position for LA. The former NL MVP capitalized big time, with what turned out to be the game-winning single.