LeBron James has been caught bending the truth a few times. The one that has wildly spread over is him predicting Kobe Bryant’s infamous 81-point game. However, to his teammates, the Akron Hammer has maintained a great reputation. His work ethic is an inspiring example, and his basketball mind breeds a winning culture. But apparently, that isn’t what Russell Westbrook saw when he was with the Lakers.

James persona was something completely different according to The Ringer’s Yaron Weitzman. Brodie’s stint with the Lakers was tumultuous. He never found his rhythm, and Laker Nation openly wanted him out. LeBron James never publicly asked for the marriage to end, or showed any want for it. But that is what was happening.

Westbrook and James didn’t even cross paths when they appeared for a Summer League game. Moreover, with Kyrie Irving’s situation growing tense in Brooklyn, Westbrook felt behind James advocating for him was the feeling to re-unite with his former teammate. However, he was driven over the edge when the Lakers invited Will Smith.

According to Weitzman’s details, Smith was invited to speak to the team. But LeBron James and Anthony Davis both left. That didn’t sit right with Westbrook. He had an argument with Patrick Beverley over their behavior, and even brought them back to the meeting room. Following that, the Akron Hammer was a man full of questions, even quoting some of Smith’s dialogues.

“I hate that fake shit,” Westbrook told one of his Laker teammates about LeBron James behavior. It sounds wild, and a story that will surely attract eyes. Can it be said for certain that it happened? Not until either Westbrook, Beverley or one of those sitting in that room confirm the facts. But one thing that can be said for certain is that for Westbrook’s happiness, his stint with the Lakers had to end.

Russell Westbrook and the Lakers – a needed break up

The Lakers were all smiles when Russell Westbrook initially came. This was a nine-time All-Star who balled out for the Washington Wizards. It was also home to Brodie, a UCLA legend and Los Angeles native. However, the stint itself was far from ideal. Westbrook struggled to find himself on the court, and in doing so, the Lakers didn’t find any success.

In 130 games with Westbrook, the Lakers had a 56-74 record. Stats wise, Westbrook provided good numbers in his time with the Lakers – 17.4 points and 7.2 assists. However, being himself wasn’t possible. Westbrook needs the ball to dictate the game. But with LeBron James still without a Luka Doncic level playmaker, that didn’t happen.

What it resulted in is the highlight of Westbrook’s flaws. He couldn’t be a spot up shooters and the animosity and disrespect around his name only made things bitter. Recently, he even refused to sign a Lakers jersey, clarifying his thoughts about playing for the Purple and Gold. Since then though, Brodie has revived his career.

While it did take long, he is back in the NBA, playing for the Sacramento Kings this season. The team is filled with veterans, and Russell Westbrook could really enjoy being a stable contributor. As for his story with the Lakers, it’s one he has moved on from.

Do you think former players will speak up against these allegations on LeBron James? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.