The Los Angeles Lakers figured in a heated exchange that almost led to a brawl with the Phoenix Suns following a Chris Paul foul on LeBron James early in the fourth quarter.

After a free-throw that bounced on the rim, James tried to recover the ball, only to be fouled by Paul, who wrapped his arms around the Lakers superstar to stop him. A foul was called on the said play, but it didn't stop there as a shoving match ensued.

When Alex Caruso got the ball, Cameron Payne pushed him to the floor to get possession of it back. Of course, Caruso didn't like it and confronted the Suns gaurd, who then threw the ball to the direction of the Lakers fan-favorite. Montrezl Harrell came to the defense of his teammate and pushed Payne, who almost fell as well.

Here is the wild sequence:

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For what it's worth, Cameron Payne was ejected from the game for his conduct. Meanwhile, Alex Caruso and Montrezl Harrell were both hit with technical fouls for their involvement in the heated exchange.

Unfortunately for the Lakers, their testy flare ups didn't help them survive the onslaught that the Suns threw at them. Chris Paul and Co. won the game, 99-90, to take a 1-0 series lead against the defending champions.

LeBron James had a solid all-around performance of 18 points, seven rebounds and 10 assists. However, it was no match for Devin Booker's 34 points and Deandre Ayton's 21-16 point-rebound outing.