Rich Paul, LeBron James’ longtime agent, addressed rumors that James controlled the trade involving Russell Westbrook. Speaking on The Rich Eisen Show, Paul firmly denied the claim, saying LeBron had no role in the decision.
Paul said, via Lakers Nation, “That’s false. I can say that because I’m there.” He explained how such narratives can damage relationships within teams by making players feel unwanted because of perceived influence by a superstar.
He stressed that James “clearly don’t run the team” and cited the Westbrook trade as proof. “There’s things that transpired that he didn’t even know about, so how is he running the team?”
The trade sent Westbrook to the Utah Jazz before a buyout led to his signing with the Los Angeles Clippers.
During his time with the Clippers, Westbrook averaged 15.8 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 7.6 assists while shooting nearly 49 percent from the field.
The Clippers re-signed him on a two-year deal, and Westbrook later requested a bench role after the team acquired James Harden.
In 2024, Westbrook passed milestones like 25,000 career points and 200 triple-doubles, making history as the first player to reach 200 triple-doubles. He currently plays for the Denver Nuggets after signing with them in July 2024.
