Skip Bayless reacts to LeBron James' refusal to throw Russell Westbrook under the bus
Fox Sports analyst Skip Bayless had it out for LeBron James after the LA Lakers' loss on Sunday. Highlighting some of the comments made by James after the game, Bayless took off on the superstar on Twitter.
Skip Bayless is widely known for criticizing NBA players. However, his attention towards everything LeBron James does has become a fairly well-known aspect of his persona.
The LA Lakers superstar certainly didn't make matters any easier for himself after Sunday night's loss against the Portland Trail Blazers. Although James had a tremendous game himself, the "King" couldn't get the Lakers over the hump.
While the situation cannot be blamed on one person, Russell Westbrook has often been viewed as a scapegoat. James defended his teammate during his post-game interview.
Unfortunately, Skip Bayless didn't view the comments the same way. In reaction to LeBron's statement, Skip tweeted:
"LeBron just said reporters were trying to 'set him up' to say something negative about Westbrook and that's 'not who I am.' LeBron knows full well he doesn't need to pile on - that the 'GOAT' has the perfect scapegoat - Westbrick. Who missed the last shot? LeBron did."
LeBron just said reporters were trying to "set him up" to say something negative about Westbrook and that's "not who I am." LeBron knows full well he doesn't need to pile on - that the "GOAT" has the perfect scapegoat - Westbrick. Who missed the last shot? LeBron did.
Bayless somehow managed to take shots at both James and Westbrook in his tweet. While dishing out criticism towards LeBron for missing the game-winner, Skip practically reduced Westbrook to an afterthought as a player.
As mentioned earlier, Russell Westbrook has been on the receiving end of media backlash for the majority of his tenure in a Lakers uniform. In this regard, James stepping up for his teammate is viewed positively.
Unfortunately, James coming to Westbrook's defense does little for the Lakers' overall situation. With a horrendous 0-3 start to the 2022-23 campaign, the Purple and Gold find themselves amongst the worst teams in the league.
LeBron James continues to carry the LA Lakers
At the age of 37, LeBron James is still viewed as one of the best players in the league. While this speaks volumes about his longevity, it's more of a commentary on his ability to carry teams.
Having carried several teams throughout the course of his career, James unfortunately finds himself in the same situation again this season. Although the general consensus suggested that it was time for Anthony Davis to take over the reigns, it appears evident that this may not happen.
In Sunday's loss to the Portland Trail Blazers, LeBron James recorded 31 points, eight rebounds and eight assists. While this is impressive in it's own right, James also notched two steals and two blocks to cap off his performance. Meanwhile, Davis contributed a solid 22 points and 10 rebounds with a game-high six blocks.
The LA Lakers duo certainly shone in the game. Unfortunately, the numbers reflect the influence both have on the game. At 37 years old, James should not be playing 38 minutes a game. While he is capable of it, asking him to do so every night is unsustainable.
As the situation stands, the Lakers are still being carried by LeBron. While Davis has done a great job of supporting him, he hasn't done much to take over.
Overall, the LA Lakers will have to make a significant number of adjustments if they have any hopes of turning things around in the upcoming games.