Tensions between LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers may have reached a new peak. In a surprising twist, one of LeBron’s closest friends, Anthony Marshon Davis Jr. – better known as Cuffs The Legend – ignited a firestorm with a bold claim about the franchise’s relationship with its superstar.
Cuffs, a social media personality with deep ties to James, took to X (formerly Twitter) to express a controversial opinion: “Everybody in that Lakers building doesn’t really wanna see LJ get his 5th in a Lakers uniform.”
In short, he suggested that not only are Lakers fans unenthusiastic about another LeBron title run – some may actually be rooting against it.
A legacy divided: LeBron and the Lakers fanbase
LeBron’s five-year stint in Los Angeles has been a mixed bag. On one hand, he helped orchestrate the trade for Anthony Davis, which directly led to the Lakers winning the 2020 NBA championship.
That title, won inside the Orlando bubble, ended a decade-long drought for the storied franchise.
However, LeBron has also been tied to less successful moves – including pushing for the trade that brought Russell Westbrook to L.A., a move that ultimately backfired. The Lakers have since struggled to regain their footing, missing the playoffs in 2022 and getting bounced in the early rounds in other years.
Cuffs’ statement struck a nerve. While some fans dismissed it as baseless drama, others agreed that LeBron has never been fully embraced by a portion of the fanbase.
One user replied, “The love has been fake since day one.” Another added, “Then they really don’t want number 18 either,” referring to the franchise’s pursuit of an 18th championship banner.
Further complicating matters is the perception that Lakers management – particularly GM Rob Pelinka – has made moves that don’t align with James’ goals. After the 2020 title, Pelinka broke up much of the championship core, fueling speculation about a disconnect behind the scenes.
Now, with LeBron nearing the end of his career and the 2025-26 season possibly his last in a Lakers uniform, the situation feels uncertain. He’s brought the franchise back to relevance, but some fans and insiders still question his long-term fit.
Cuffs’ comments may have been off the cuff, but they’ve sparked a deeper conversation. As LeBron enters his 22nd NBA season, the real question isn’t just about wins – it’s about legacy. Will Los Angeles fully embrace the man who brought them back to glory, or will history remember it as a partnership built on uneasy respect?
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