LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers just wrapped up what can only be called a nightmare of a season. The Lakers failed to qualify for the postseason. Head coach Frank Vogel, who won a championship for the team just two seasons ago, was unceremoniously fired. Things could not have gone worse for the franchise.

King James commented throughout the year on the team’s lack of chemistry. Many fans speculated that there was some heat between LeBron and Russell Westbrook. Russ struggled through a very difficult season that included some very embarrassing moments on and off the court.

Silver Screen & Roll, a major Lakers news site, has reported that LeBron James’ treatment of Russell Westbrook had a hugely adverse effect on the team. That missing chemistry could have been, in large part, due to James himself. Several examples of his alleged unsettling behavior have cropped up.

“In an early-season film session, assistant coach David Fizdale challenged Westbrook on his shot selection, and the two had an d exchange, sources said. That was one of the instances when Westbrook was challenged by a coach or teammate, and the style the coaching staff envisioned for Westbrook did not match what took place on the court.

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When Westbrook met with James and Davis prior to the blockbuster draft-night trade last year, sources say the league’s all-time leader in triple-doubles assured them he would accept any role given to him and be willing to adapt based on critique. The outcome of the season shows a common ground was not found.”

LeBron James was said to have an overall negative attitude around Russell Westbrook. That appears to have rubbed off on their teammates. The Lakers front office will have a lot of contemplation to do this offseason.

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Tags: LeBron James
Michael Perry

Michael Perry is a news contributor for Ringside News and Thirsty for News. Michael has an M.A. in Communication Technology from Point Park University in his hometown of Pittsburgh, PA.

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