Reports from ESPN suggested that Jeanie Buss privately labeled LeBron James as ungrateful, selfish, and controlling, accusations that surfaced amid an investigation into internal tensions within the Buss family. Baxter Holmes’ column detailed the Lakers’ ownership infighting and painted a stark picture of the franchise’s internal dynamics. While Buss has never publicly criticized James, sources indicated that such sentiments were discussed behind closed doors, with James even confronting the possibility that the organization’s former owner had explored trading him.

Despite the noise surrounding the report and its fallout, LeBron James appeared largely unfazed. “I don’t really care about the articles,” he told reporters. As he enters the final season of his contract with the Lakers, the four-time champion has shown little outward reaction to the revelations, suggesting he has not taken offense to Buss’ reported remarks.

“I’m good,” James said when asked about the report possibly harboring a desire to part ways with the storied Lakers franchise.

LeBron James’ calm reaction may come as a surprise, but his comments about his relationship with Jeanie Buss offer important context. First, given the constant scrutiny the four-time MVP has faced throughout his career, a single report is unlikely to rattle him. Second, while James and Buss have maintained a cordial and seemingly close relationship, they do not operate in direct collaboration in the way he might with someone like JJ Redick.

It must have been disappointing. But James’ unmoved reaction is critical for the Lakers. The team is struggling to find a consistent rhythm, suffering a loss to the Clippers tonight. External distractions and dialogue are capable of creating a toxic environment in the locker room. Amidst that possibility, LeBron James’ stance during the controversy clarifies his allegiance.

He’s not playing for Jeanie Buss or anybody higher up. James wants to represent the Lakers with honor and aim for success with the group of teammates he has. The report will remain a focus for weeks to come. At least the Akron Hammer has ensured he doesn’t mind or care about what’s being said about his actions.

Jeanie Buss refutes the latest ESPN report

Although emotionally unaffected, LeBron James didn’t expect such a revelation to come out. The 2020 Finals MVP for the Lakers described his relationship with Jeanie Buss as “good”. So why, out of nowhere, would the team governor hold resentment against the Lakers’ biggest star? That’s where she believes it’s a lie concocted because of the Buss sibling rivalry.

In a statement made to The Athletic’s Sam Amick, Buss said, “It’s really not right, given all the great things LeBron has done for the Lakers, that he has to be pulled into my family drama. To say that it wasn’t appreciated is just not true and completely unfair to him”.

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Buss even changed her Instagram profile picture to an image of her embracing LeBron James during the Lakers’ 2020 championship celebration. Taken together with her public comments, it suggests that the ongoing Buss family infighting, which has resulted in all five siblings, aside from Jeanie, stepping away from the franchise, may be influencing the narrative surrounding the situation. It’s possible that some elements of the report are accurate.

Still, the controversy appears to stem from a broader internal feud that has little to do with James himself. He may have simply been the most visible and convenient figure around whom tensions could escalate. James, for his part, responded with composure and professionalism. The hope now is that the Lakers can prevent the noise from becoming a distraction and continue progressing as a team.