Draymond Green calls out Jeanie Buss for criticizing LeBron

Sam Stroup

Draymond Green calls out Jeanie Buss for criticizing LeBron image

Jan 25, 2025; San Francisco, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (left) talks with Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green (right) after the game at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images

Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green is getting in on the drama between LeBron James and former Los Angeles Lakers owner Jeanie Buss.

ESPN's Baxter Holmes reported Wednesday that Buss was not happy with James' prominent role within the organization. He said Buss grew tired of James being called "a savior for a floundering franchise."

Green, who appeared on The Draymond Green Show Thursday, supported James after the report.

"Is LeBron supposed to bow down and kiss her ring and say thank you?" Green said. "I've seen 'Bron speak out about how appreciative he was."

More: Warriors reportedly considering signing LeBron this summer

Green and James have formed a strong friendship over the years. The two are clients of Klutch Sports Group, which is led by agent Rich Paul. Buss reportedly thought Paul had too much power over the organization after the Anthony Davis trade in 2019.

Green said Paul's role with the Lakers was a product of the NBA's environment.

"A lot of the top agents, especially agents of the top players, usually have some say over what goes on," Green said. "That's the nature of this business."

The relationship between James and Buss allegedly went south after the disastrous Russell Westbrook trade in 2021. Holmes said Buss wanted to trade James to the Los Angeles Clippers after that season.

Green defended Westbrook, saying the Lakers had more issues than just one player.

"Russ during that time was one of the scapegoats," he said. "To point the blame solely at a player... I don't know if I can just roll with that."

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Staff Writer