When Lonzo Ball came into the league we were all aware that he would get everybody's best shot due to the outspoken nature of his father, LaVar. In the first game of his career on Thursday night, he was completely shut down by veteran guard Patrick Beverley, who was also seen jawing back and forth with the Lakers rookie. Contrary to popular belief, however, it wasn't a juvenile tactic that has no place in the league.
Trash talk is part of the very nature of basketball, and Patrick Beverley was out to prove to an unpolished rookie that what you do on the court will decide how long your career lasts in the Association. Hockey has fights, football has hard hits and the NBA has trash talk. It is an important part of the game and can play a crucial role in the breakdown of an opponent.
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