LeBron James’ Lakers Message After Jeanie Buss News

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ayomide Adeduyite | Last updated Jan 23, 2026 3:25 AM ET

The Los Angeles Lakers saw their bid for a third straight win halted Thursday night with a 112-104 loss to the Los Angeles Clippers in Inglewood. LeBron James finished with 23 points, six assists and five rebounds, but the Lakers’ 26-point third-quarter deficit proved costly in the end. This marked the Lakers’ second straight loss against the Clippers, as they now drop to 1-2 against their crosstown rivals this season.

The loss came amid a heavy news cycle surrounding the franchise, as headlines earlier were already dominated by an ESPN report by Baxter Holmes detailing alleged internal tension between Lakers governor Jeanie Buss and James.

The report, published on Wednesday, explored Buss’ reported frustrations over James’ influence within the organization and referenced her alleged reaction to the Lakers drafting Bronny James, claims Buss later pushed back on publicly. The news quickly gained traction across the league and was a major storyline entering Thursday’s game.

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23)© Stephen Lew-Imagn Images

After the game, James was asked directly by reporters about his relationship with the franchise and offered a measured response.

“I thought it was good, but somebody could see it another way,” James said. “At the end of the day, how I represented this franchise is with the utmost respect, honor, & dignity. I’ve played here longer than any other franchise besides Cleveland” (via ESPN’s Dave McMenamin).

“I thought it was good, but somebody could see it another way” - LeBron James when asked how his partnership has gone with the Lakers in the eight years he’s been with the franchise pic.twitter.com/MNcbTP4ekM
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) January 23, 2026

James’ tenure with the Lakers has included both major highs and notable challenges. Since signing with the franchise in 2018, he helped deliver the 2020 NBA championship, navigated multiple roster overhauls, coaching changes and playoff runs, and remained the team’s central figure until the arrival of Luka Doncic last season. While expectations have shifted year to year, James has continued to shoulder a significant role throughout his time in Los Angeles.

As fans continue to discuss the alleged internal conflict, the Lakers now turn their attention to the rest their eight-game road trip, which continues Saturday against the Dallas Mavericks. LA, currently sixth in the Western Conference, will look to regain momentum and steady itself as the regular season progresses.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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