Russell Westbrook and his short-lived stint with the Los Angeles Lakers continues to reveal new layers, and this time, its about his fractured relationship with LeBron James.
In NBA writer Yaron Weitzmans new book, A Hollywood Ending: The Dreams and Drama of the LeBron Lakers, Westbrooks frustrations with James are brought to light, detailing how the former MVP grew tired of what he viewed as LeBrons inauthentic behavior.
The tension reportedly built up over time, with Westbrook growing increasingly irritated by James tendency to appear supportive publicly while acting differently behind closed doors.
One particular sore point came from LeBrons repeated media comments urging the team to let Russ be Russ.
I think nobody understands what that means, Westbrook told reporters in 2021. I think people just say it.
When asked about those remarks after the 2021-22 season, Westbrook doubled down, saying, That wasnt true. So lets be honest.
Things eventually reached a breaking point early in the 2022-23 campaign. With the Lakers off to an 0-3 start, general manager Rob Pelinka informed players that actor Will Smith would visit the facility after a team film session.
James abruptly left through a back door, followed by Anthony Davis, prompting Westbrook to question why the rest of the team had to stay, according to Weitzman.
When Smith finally arrived, LeBron reportedly returned and began enthusiastically engaging with the actor about his latest film.
I hate that fake s, Westbrook told a teammate afterward, according to Weitzman. I just cant do it.
Just four months later, Westbrook was traded to the Utah Jazz, officially ending his turbulent Lakers run.
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