“They Never Gave Him a Chance”: Former NBA Champion Criticizes LeBron James’ Lakers for Their Treatment of 9x All Star

The Los Angeles Lakers recently lost the season-opener against the defending Champions Golden State Warriors on October 18. LeBron James-led Lakers are coming off a disappointing last season. The Lakers ended the 2021-22 season with an embarrassing 33-49 record, finishing eleventh in the Western Conference. There were a number of issues, including injuries to Anthony Davis & LeBron James and the duo’s lack of chemistry with Russell Westbrook. However, most of the blame from the media and fans came towards Westbrook. 

Recently, former NBA champ Nick Young criticized the Lakers for how they treated the nine-time All-Star since his arrival in LA. The Lakers acquired Russell Westbrook in 2021 to create a big three alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis. However, the trio lacked the chemistry and played only 21 games together, with an 11-10 record. As a result, the Lakers failed to make it to the playoffs.

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After the regular season knockout, the Lakers’ front office was keen on trading Westbrook. They got involved in various trade negotiations, with numerous teams bearing no fruitful results. Meanwhile, Westbrook opted for his $47.1 million option as the Lakers brought in his old nemesis, Patrick Beverley.

Nick Young takes a dig at LeBron James-led Lakers

Nick Young took to Twitter to express his concerns about how the Lakers treated Russell Westbrook since the time he first came to LA in 2021. The 2018 NBA champ claimed that Westbrook did not receive the same welcome as Patrick Beverley. He stated that the Lakers treated Russell Westbrook differently and the fans also criticized him too much. Young wrote, “But when Russ got here, it was man hell naw BOO!!! This man They never gave him a chance .. just let Russ go he had enough of a beating.”

The former Lakers star also advised the franchise to stop criticizing Westbrook and let him be. Russell Westbrook averaged 18.5 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 7.1 assists per game in 78 appearances last season. It was Westbrook’s first season since 2009-10 when he averaged below 20 PPG.

The 33-year-old had a good outing during the opening game as he scored 19 points with 11 rebounds and 3 assists. However, the Los Angeles Lakers still lost the game despite LeBron James‘ 31 points and Anthony Davis’ 27 points.

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Russell Westbrook would hope to have a better outing this season as he aims to prove his worth in the NBA. Westbrook and Davis still look to be a crucial factor for LeBron James to lead the Lakers to a respectable position this season.