LeBron James is great at heaves - if they don’t count

But when it’s an actual buzzer-beater that would count as attempt and hurt James’ percentages, he’s not interested. In Thursday’s Game 2, James casually dribbled with 2.2 seconds left and didn’t get off a desperation shot.

Those are low-percentage shots, to be fair. But there’s also only upside with long heaves. There’s a small-but-real chance of getting three points for his team, while the downside is only a lower three-point percentage for the shooter.

Is it accidental? Basketball Reference tracks “heaves” - shots from beyond half court - and credits James with just three heaves in the last 12 seasons. Steph Curry has nine this season alone, and in the last 12 seasons he’s put up 92 - and made five.

Still that’s 15 extra points the Warriors have because Curry isn’t afraid of missing and taking a hit on his statistics.

Ultimately it’s a small thing, but LeBron has shown he can make those wild shots, both in games and at practice.

If the Lakers end up dropping a playoff game by three or fewer points, James will wish he’d heaved it up more.