An NBA official calls out LeBron James for pressuring the Lakers to make trades and not taking ownership when things go south.
LeBron James, the leading point scorer in NBA, is an athlete of high stature. People around the globe look up to him for inspiration. However, in a few rare instances, his influence and popularity backfire on him badly. Just this season, his team, Los Angeles Lakers, is struggling to make a place in the playoffs after repeatedly losing close games.
The main reason for this season’s downfall is the Lakers’ lousy trade moves during the last off-season. For instance, the purple and gold acquired Russell Westbrook from the Wizards in a controversial trade. However, things didn’t go as planned as the point guard failed to gel in with the lineup. While the Lakers parted ways with Westbrook halfway through the season, LeBron James is facing the flak for allegedly forcing the trade.
NBA Official Blames LeBron James For Russell Westbrook Fiasco, Asks Him To Take Ownership Of His Actions
LeBron James has a reputation for being very involved in the decision-making processes of the teams he plays for. He is known for having strong opinions on personnel moves and is not afraid to voice them. For instance, when Russell Westbrook joined the LA Lakers ahead of the season, a few media reports alleged that LeBron James forced the front office for the trade. However, an NBA official called out LeBron and said he should stop meddling with the front office’s decision.
According to the official, LeBron James has a tendency to get heavily involved with the front office’s decisions, and when things go south, he distances himself from it and puts the blame on others. He further added that LeBron needs to take ownership of his actions and take the fall. This is not to say that James is a bad teammate or a bad leader. In fact, he has a long history of inspiring his teammates and leading them to victory. However, his approach to team building can sometimes work against him. While he has a lot of influence, he must also be willing to take responsibility for his decisions.
LeBron Likely To Miss The Season Following A Foot Injury
LA Lakers superstar LeBron James damaged his right foot during a game against the Mavericks. Following medical assessments, the team ruled the forward out for three weeks. However, as per the latest rumors, LeBron’s injury is more severe than estimated, possibly putting a premature end to his ongoing season. If so happens, the Lakers are in deep trouble as they have a handful number of games from hereon to live the playoff dream.
LeBron James has been a major points contributor for the Lakers this season, along with Anthony Davis. His absence will hit the Lakers’ playoff qualification odds significantly. However, AD has been really leveling up his game ever since James moved to the bench. He delivered back-to-back 35+ points games and led the Lakers to two perfect victories. With a few weeks in hand, the onus is on Davis to get the team through to the playoffs.