Russell Westbrook and LeBron James were supposed to be the next great superstar pairing in Los Angeles. Instead, their time together with the Lakers was marked by missed expectations, awkward chemistry, and, according to a new report, deep personal disconnect.
In his new book A Hollywood Ending: The Dreams and Drama of the LeBron Lakers, NBA writer Yaron Weitzman reveals that Westbrook grew increasingly frustrated with what he perceived as LeBron’s “fake” behavior behind the scenes.
LeBron often told the media to “Let Russ be Russ,” signaling support for Westbrook’s aggressive, high-energy style. But according to Weitzman, that support didn’t extend behind closed doors. LeBron reportedly pushed for a reunion with Kyrie Irving, a move that would have required trading Westbrook, while publicly denying any such intentions.
This contradiction reportedly left Westbrook feeling betrayed and isolated.
One moment that reportedly crystallized Westbrook’s disillusionment came during a Lakers team event featuring actor Will Smith. LeBron and Anthony Davis allegedly left the room moments before Smith arrived, only to return minutes later acting overly enthusiastic. LeBron dominated the conversation, quoting movie lines and asking questions as if nothing had happened.
Westbrook, watching in disbelief, reportedly turned to a teammate and said:
“I hate that fake sh*t. I just can’t do it.”
Westbrook allegedly saw multiple examples of LeBron misrepresenting himself, including:
- Claiming The Godfather was his favorite movie but not knowing any lines.
- Carrying The Autobiography of Malcolm X to interviews without being able to discuss its content.
- Saying he predicted Kobe Bryant’s 81-point game, an assertion many found implausible.
These moments reportedly reinforced Westbrook’s view that LeBron was more concerned with image than authenticity.
While neither player has publicly addressed these claims, the revelations add new context to the Lakers’ turbulent 2022–23 season. Westbrook was eventually traded, and LeBron continued to reshape the roster around his vision.
