It seems that the friendship between LeBron James and Russell Westbrook is no longer the same after the point guard’s time with the Los Angeles Lakers. During the game between the Los Angeles Clippers and Lakers, an audio revealed LeBron’s frustration with his teammates. The reason, according to the website Fadeawayworld, was Westbrook’s lack of effective marking in the first half.
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In the first 24 minutes of the game, the former 2016/17 MVP already accumulated 13 points and five assists. In the third quarter, he scored eight more points. LeBron was irritated when he realized that the marking on his former teammate wasn’t working. “No, we’re better than that,” LeBron complained. “You need to mark him, you can’t give him space.” Soon after, LeBron blocked a layup attempt by Westbrook.
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James and Westbrook were friends before the point guard arrived at the Lakers. It was LeBron who encouraged Westbrook to leave a comfortable situation at the Washington Wizards to face the challenge of playing in Los Angeles, in front of the media and demanding fans. When Westbrook was later traded to the Utah Jazz, and then released, a member of the California team called him a “vampire.” According to journalist Dave McMenamin, from ESPN, this source stated that the point guard caused problems in the locker rooms.
Westbrook played a central role in the three-way trade between the Lakers, Minnesota Timberwolves and Utah Jazz. The Lakers received D’Angelo Russell, Malik Beasley and Jarred Vanderbilt in exchange, while sending the controversial point guard and a first-round pick to the Utah Jazz. The Timberwolves acquired Mike Conley and draft picks as part of the deal. Days after the transaction, Westbrook was released and signed with the Los Angeles Clippers. In his new team, he has constantly praised the work environment and the franchise. He explained: “I know exactly where I am. This is a place that wants me and where I want to be too. That’s always the most important thing. Plus, I really appreciate how this franchise supports its players, on all fronts, in our wants and needs. It’s incredible. In short, it’s a very positive experience to play here.” After a thrilling overtime, the Lakers beat the Clippers 130-125, with LeBron James recording 35 points, 12 rebounds and seven assists, while Westbrook finished with 24 points, 11 rebounds and eight assists.