Russell Westbrook reportedly struggled with LeBron James’ behavior while playing for the Los Angeles Lakers. According to Yaron Weitzman of The Ringer, Westbrook disliked what he perceived as James’ insincerity during his time with the team.
During a summer 2022 Lakers summer league session, Westbrook reportedly refused to engage with James, leaving the court mid-session. “I hate that fake sh*t,” Westbrook told a teammate, highlighting his frustration with James’ actions.
Westbrook had grown wary of James’ public statements, believing they didn’t match his true intentions. “People are saying, ‘Let Russ be Russ,’” Westbrook said, referencing James’ repeated comments. “I think nobody understands what that means. I think people just say it.”
The tension came amid the Lakers’ 2022 offseason, following Westbrook’s difficult trade from the Washington Wizards and the team’s failed pursuit of Kyrie Irving. James reportedly wanted Westbrook traded to clear space for Irving, further straining their relationship.
James’ public persona also frustrated Westbrook. Instances like claiming The Godfather was his favorite film yet forgetting key details, or inaccurately recounting Kobe Bryant’s 81-point game, reinforced Westbrook’s distrust.
The situation escalated when Will Smith visited a Lakers practice as part of the team’s Genius Series program. While James and Anthony Davis engaged extensively with Smith, Westbrook watched silently, visibly irritated by what he viewed as performative behavior.
Westbrook’s time with the Lakers highlighted a mismatch in personalities. Sources said the former MVP often felt isolated from team dynamics due to differences with James and Davis, culminating in moments like the summer league confrontation and the team photo with Smith.
