LeBron James Confronted The Referees After They Didn't Call A Foul Against Westbrook: "I Want Russell Westbrook To Get The Same Respect."

Originally posted on Fadeaway World
By Aaditya Krishnamurthy | Last updated 1/19/22

LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers had a good performance against the Utah Jazz on Monday night. The Lakers put an end to their 3-game losing streak, a game that included a blowout loss to the Denver Nuggets. LeBron James played a big part in the lakers correcting their course.

During the game, LeBron James found himself frustrated with the officials. Russell Westbrook drove the ball to the basket, but couldn't convert because of the amount of contact the Jazz players made on him during the play. The referees didn't call a foul, something LeBron James objected to, and told them to show Westbrook some respect and call the foul.

"I want Russell Westbrook to get the same respect."

Russ got his own back during the second half when he put Rudy Gobert on a poster with an incredible dunk. And in the closing moments of the game, Westbrook came up clutch for the Lakers with an incredible layup and was able to draw the foul this time. LeBron James was hyped after that play and gave Westbrook his props.

James spoke after the game and addressed why he avoided interacting with the media after their disappointing blowout against the Nuggets, saying that he didn't want to say something that could be taken out of context and portray his teammates in a negative light.

The Lakers' win was much needed. But it appears the franchise will be making some roster changes, especially since they have no plans to replace Frank Vogel. Even Stephen A. Smith has suggested that the Los Angeles Lakers will make some changes to the roster ahead of the trade deadline.

Can the Lakers continue this run of form going forward? They desperately need to put together a string of performances like the one they had against the Utah Jazz. The Lakers were championship favorites to start the season, and really need to start playing like it if they want to achieve that goal.