Westbrook Saga Fissured LeBron’s Lakers Run

LeBron James reportedly helped broker the 2021 Lakers trade for Russell Westbrook to revive title hopes, but the move backfired as Westbrook struggled and LA missed the playoffs, fueling scrutiny and a growing rift. ESPN noted a disconnect between James and the Lakers after the failed deal, with franchise owner Jeanie Buss frustrated James didn’t take accountability. The friction persisted into James’ eight-season tenure, which appears set to end as he signs elsewhere in free agency.