Rich Paul Calls Out Critics For Brutal Lakers Remark, Claims He's Expected to "Glaze" Due to LeBron James

LeBron James’ longtime agent and close friend, Rich Paul, recently shocked many with his honest views about the LA Lakers. Paul received criticism from fans and analysts for claiming that the Purple & Gold are not title contenders. This backlash left him confused, wondering why he was expected to only support the team simply because of his association with James.

Speaking on a recent episode of his “Game Over” podcast, Paul addressed the criticism. He explained that he is not willing to hold his opinions back just because they might seem to go against James. Paul also added that his work involved doing business across the league, not just with one player or one franchise.

“People expect me because LeBron is on the Lakers, to only glaze a situation,” Paul said. “You don’t know me... Some things shouldn’t be said, but we’re doing a show talking basketball.”

Paul’s comments were aimed at critics who accused him of attacking LeBron James and the Lakers. Earlier in the week, he didn’t mince his words when speaking about the team’s strength, making it clear that he does not believe that LA can win it all.

“I, personally, don’t think the Lakers are good enough to be contenders right now,” Paul said. “Not right now. I don’t think they have enough to get to the Western Conference Final. I don’t think they have enough to really contend from that perspective right now.”

The comments do come as a surprise given the Lakers' current position in the standings, sitting fourth in the West with a 17-7 record.

LeBron James bounces back after streak-ending game

LeBron James’ double-digit scoring streak came to an end on Dec. 4, putting an end to the run that had lasted 1,297 games since Jan. 6, 2007. In a 123-120 win over the Toronto Raptors, James managed to score just eight points.

However, the subpar scoring performance did not have a long-lasting impact. After sitting out the following game against the Boston Celtics on Dec. 5, LeBron returned to the lineup on Dec. 7 against the Philadelphia 76ers and looked like his usual self. He finished the night with 29 points, seven rebounds, and six assists, leading the Lakers to a 112-108 win.

He followed that performance with another strong all-around effort on Dec. 10 against the San Antonio Spurs, recording 19 points, 15 rebounds and eight assists. However, despite his near triple-double, the Lakers lost 132-119 in the NBA Emirates Cup quarterfinals.