The NBA's Sunday headliner between the Los Angeles Lakers and Boston Celtics managed to fit the billing after the contest went down to the wire. The showdown was even capped by a couple of stellar performances from center Anthony Davis and forward Jayson Tatum that have not been seen since the legendary Kobe Bryant was taking part in the rivalry.

According to ESPN Stats & Info, Davis and Tatum each managed to accomplish feats that had not been done since Bryant himself was still terrorizing the Celtics.

https://twitter.com/ESPNStatsInfo/status/1231725850623664129

It is no secret that Jayson Tatum has long been a staunch admirer of Bryant and is a product of the “Mamba Mentality” that he left behind as part of his legacy. He solidified that notion by paying homage with a spectacular outing at Staples Center after dropping 41 points on 12-of-20 shooting. He also tacked on five rebounds, two assists, two blocks and a steal before the Celtics came up short.

Meanwhile, Anthony Davis channeled his inner Bryant by navigating through a rough game to still find a way to win this high-profile NBA matchup. Despite struggling from the field on 10-of-25 shooting, his 32 points, 13 rebounds, and two blocks paved the way for a 114-112 victory for the Lakers.

Although Kobe Bryant may be gone, his presence remains as strong as ever and tends to be magnified during competitive outings in the NBA. The Lakers have newfound championship expectations, while the Celtics usher in a new ear with budding young superstars like Tatum.