Lakers Lakers’ JJ Redick defends LeBron James amid ‘unfortunate’ criticism LeBron James, playing in a back-to-back for the first time this season, had 31 points, 10 assists and nine rebounds in Tuesday’s win over the Atlanta Hawks. One of those belongs to Austin Reaves, who was unwittingly pitted against James this week during unfortunate speculation from James’ agent and close friend Rich Paul. Lakers forward LeBron James hugs teammate Austin Reaves after he was fouled on a three-point shot during a game against Utah. Later on his podcast, Paul said he told Berry, “I want Austin to know this is not about Austin Reaves because I love the player, love the person.”Everybody, it seems, loves Austin Reaves, and he’s not going anywhere. Meanwhile, after another tumultuous week in the passive-aggressive life of a king, it feels like LeBron James is as good as gone.

Source: Los Angeles Times January 18, 2026 14:20 UTC