NBA fans reacted with skepticism after LeBron James stated he enjoyed being teammates with Russell Westbrook during their time together with the Los Angeles Lakers. The comment drew immediate pushback on social media, with many fans labeling the sentiment "so fake" given the well-documented on-court struggles and reported tension between the two stars during the 2021-22 season.
James and Westbrook played one season together after Westbrook was acquired via trade from the Washington Wizards. The pairing failed to meet championship expectations, with the Lakers missing the playoffs entirely. Westbrook was later traded to the Utah Jazz in a multi-team deal during the 2023 offseason.
Fan reactions highlighted the contrast between James's recent remarks and the visible frustration both players showed during their lone season as teammates. Neither player's representatives have issued further comment on the exchange.
