Draymond Green isn’t one to bite his tongue-especially when it comes to defending his inner circle. And when that circle includes LeBron James, the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, you can bet Green’s going to speak up. This week, the Warriors forward came out swinging in defense of James, taking direct aim at Lakers governor Jeanie Buss after reports surfaced suggesting she had privately criticized LeBron’s influence over the team.
On his podcast, Green didn’t mince words. He called out the idea that anyone within the Lakers organization would question James’ impact, making it clear he believes the franchise should be showing nothing but gratitude to the four-time MVP. After all, it was James who helped end a decade-long title drought in 2020, delivering the Lakers their 17th championship.
The tension stems from recent rumors that Buss was frustrated with the current state of the Lakers’ roster and James’ role in shaping it. Green pushed back hard, pointing out that before LeBron’s arrival, the Lakers were stuck in a deep playoff rut. According to Green, any criticism of James-given what he’s done for the franchise both on and off the court-is not only misplaced, it’s disrespectful.
As the story picked up steam across social media, Buss responded swiftly, denying she ever made those remarks. LeBron, for his part, took the high road. After Thursday night’s game, he brushed aside the noise and reaffirmed his focus on the season ahead and the team’s push for another deep postseason run.
And if anyone’s questioning whether James still has the juice to lead that charge, Thursday’s performance should put that to rest. In a tough 112-104 loss to the Clippers at the Intuit Dome, James turned in another well-rounded night-23 points, five rebounds, six assists in nearly 36 minutes. At 41 years old, he’s still producing at a level that most players half his age would envy.
Draymond Green on Jeanie Buss feeling like LeBron wasn’t appreciative of Lakers drafting Bronny and says we have to give Bronny credit for making it to the league 🤔
— Heat Central (@HeatCulture13) January 22, 2026
“Do you bow down and like kiss the ring and say thank you I’m appreciative? I’ve seen LeBron speak out how he’s… https://t.co/lZ6naBdCpp pic.twitter.com/JCZ0AFi4tW
Luka Doncic added 32 points and 11 boards for the Lakers, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Kawhi Leonard’s 24-point effort and a Clippers squad that continues to look like a real threat in the West. Still, at 26-17, the Lakers are very much in the hunt. And while the off-court drama might grab headlines, the on-court product-and James’ continued excellence-are what really matter.
Green’s comments serve as a reminder: for all the rivalries and competition, there’s a deep respect among the league’s veterans. Especially when it comes to players who’ve changed the game. Draymond may wear a different jersey, but his loyalty to LeBron speaks volumes about the bond between two of the most influential voices in today’s NBA.