Draymond Green criticizes Jeannie Bass for ‘criticizing’ LeBron James

Draymond Green he never misses an opportunity to defend his friends, especially when that friend is the NBA’s all-time leading scorer. The Golden State Warriors veteran was fired at Los Angeles Lakers Governor Jeannie Buss after reports that privately criticized LeBron James.

Green didn’t hold back on his podcast, suggesting that the Lakers organization should essentially bow to James for bringing a championship back to the franchise in 2020.

Draymond Green on Gene Bass feeling like LeBron didn’t appreciate the Lakers drafting Brony and says we have to give Brony credit for making the league 🤔

“Do you bow down and like to kiss the ring and say thank you, I’m grateful? I saw LeBron say how he… https://t.co/lZ6naBdCpp pic.twitter.com/JCZ0AFi4tV

— Heat Central (@HeatCulture13) January 22, 2026

The drama has begun when the rumors appeared that Buss was unhappy with the current state of the roster and James’ influence on personnel decisions. Green criticized the idea that the Lakers could be anything but grateful for the four-time MVP.

He argued that before James arrived, the team was in a massive playoff drought and that any criticism directed his way was disrespectful to his legacy and current production.

While the internet was busy picking sides, Jeanie Buss moved quickly to shut up the noise, adamantly denying that she ever made those comments. LeBron James also entered the conversation after Thursday night’s game. The The 41-year-old superstar has taken the high roadnoting that he is focused on the season and the team’s quest for another deep playoff run, not front-office rumors.

James clearly has plenty of gas in the tank to support Green’s defense. In a tough 112-104 loss to the Los Angeles Clippers on Thursday night at the Intuit Dome, James was up to the task.

He finished the night with 23 points, five rebounds and six assists in nearly 36 minutes of action. His teammate Luka Doncic led the way with 32 points and 11 rebounds, but the Lakers couldn’t overcome Kawhi Leonard’s 24-point performance.

Despite a 26-17 record and drama off the court, the Lakers remain a threat in the Western Conference. Green’s loyalty shows that even as rivals on the field, the bond between the league’s elder statesmen remains as strong as ever.