This Thunderous Zach LaVine Tip Slam Is A Reminder To Box Out On Free Throws

Zach LaVine might be the best dunker on the planet and, on Thursday night, he was given free reign to add to his ever-growing list of poster-worthy jams. During a dominant first half in which the Minnesota Timberwolves accumulated a massive 28-point lead over the Philadelphia 76ers, LaVine submitted the best highlight, as he sprinted down the lane untouched and finished a dunk in one fell swoop.

Of course, it helped that LaVine was completely and utterly untouched as he streaked toward the rim, and that is on the Sixers. Admittedly, this is a very difficult and skillful play from the super-athletic wing to time his jump and the approach just right, and it looks like he may have gone a little early. But Sixers point guard Sergio Rodriguez was in the area and, well, he was not at all helpful in deterring his opponent.

On cue, Rodriguez was caught on camera in an apoplectic position after the dunk, leading one to believe that he did believe responsibility was his in this regard. At any rate, someone probably should have boxed out Zach LaVine in this spot, and the reigning dunk contest champion reminded everyone of his explosiveness and athleticism in a game environment with this particular play.

Boxing out is important, kids.