Following the Boston Celtics’ 126-115 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers on Christmas Day, LeBron James and Jayson Tatum had a playful moment. As the two engaged in small talk, the four-time NBA champion even shook hands with Tatum’s son, Jayson Christopher Tatum Jr., also known as Deuce.

Tatum and James were deep in conversation when Deuce interrupted and grabbed the 38-year-old’s attention by following his father. James exclaimed, beaming broadly, and said:

“Deuce! Man, happy Christmas! Boy, what’s up? I hope you have a Merry Christmas.

At the Crypto.com Arena, home of the Los Angeles Lakers, they were defeated by the Boston Celtics. Over the past two seasons, the Lakers have now lost three straight games versus the Celtics.

For the Celtics, Jayson Tatum finished with 25 points, eight rebounds, seven assists, and one block, while LeBron James finished with 16 points, nine rebounds, and eight assists.

The scene following the game demonstrates that the two NBA players get along well off the court and are aware of each other’s family names.

LeBron James’s relationship with Jayson Tatum

There has been a rivalry between the LA Lakers and the Boston Celtics since 1948. LeBron James and Jayson Tatum are the latest bearers of the storied rivalry as the faces of the team shift.

Tatum frequently gives James credit for his contributions to the game and for being the player that he is. Both of them are close buddies off the basketball floor. Tatum grew up looking up to James.

Tatum once remarked, “As much great as he gets, he probably don’t get enough credit” (via Lakers Nation). “But, you know, I have a terrific relationship and am close to him. I’m grateful for the opportunity to compete against one of the greatest players of all time. Taking a shot at someone is how you demonstrate respect. That is the proper method.

In his seventh NBA season, 25-year-old Jayson Tatum averages 26.9 points, 8.5 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and 1.0 steals.

Conversely, in his 21st season in the league, 38-year-old LeBron James is still going strong. Every night, he has been dishing out 25.7 points, 7.7 rebounds, 7.3 assists, and 1.5 steals to the Lakers.

With a record of 23-6, the Boston Celtics now have the best record in the NBA Eastern Conference. The Lakers are currently 16-15 and ranked ninth in the Western Conference of the NBA.