Dave Portnoy, CEO and President of Barstool Sports, has launched a harsh critique of LeBron James’ tenure with the Los Angeles Lakers, labeling his seven seasons as a “total failure.” Portnoy’s comments highlight the frustration some Lakers fans face over James’ time with the franchise, a period marked by unmet expectations despite James’ superstar status. This backlash centers around the Lakers’ roster decisions and inability to secure consistent championship success during James’ stay in Los Angeles.
When LeBron James joined the Lakers in 2018, many Lakers supporters hoped his arrival would restore the franchise to championship glory after a period of decline. James had demonstrated his ability to guide Cleveland to multiple <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/nba/”>NBA Finals appearances, including a title victory, raising hopes that the Lakers could replicate that success. However, the path did not unfold as many anticipated, producing disappointment within the fan base and the organization alike.
Roster Changes and Lost Talents Amid Championship Aspirations
Before LeBron’s Lakers era, the team was developing several promising young players, such as Lonzo Ball, Josh Hart, Brandon Ingram, Kyle Kuzma, and Julius Randle. These homegrown talents showed potential and have since gone on to maintain valued roles across the NBA. Unfortunately for Lakers fans, most of these players were traded or moved on during the pursuit of building a team around James to chase immediate title opportunities.
The trade-offs involved in acquiring and accommodating LeBron reportedly frustrated many supporters. While the Lakers won the 2020 NBA Championship in the NBA bubble with LeBron and Anthony Davis leading the way, that success was seen by some as insufficient compensation for years of mediocrity, injuries, and roster instability. The Lakers’ struggles in subsequent seasons left observers questioning the overall impact of LeBron’s Los Angeles stay.
Portnoy’s Scathing Remarks Reflect Deep Discontent Among Critics
Addressing the public, Dave Portnoy expressed his strong disappointment in LeBron James’ performance with the Lakers. He accused James of damaging the franchise and dragging the team into mediocrity despite its storied history. Calling LeBron
“one of the greatest losers in the history of the Lakers organization,”
Portnoy argued the only reason James hadn’t been worse was because of the 2020 bubble championship, which he claimed “saved his life.”
Lebron James is one of the greatest losers in the history of the Lakers organization. He literally hasnt won anything, that bubble saved his life. His Lakers teams havent been a threat to do anything, hes been a total bum, a total failure, hes ruined the franchise, he forced then at gunpoint to draft their kid, for him to be like “im mad”, all they’ve tried to do is accomodate him and they’ve made a mockery out of a once proud franchise
—Dave Portnoy, Barstool Sports CEO and President
LeBron James’ Diminishing Physical Ability and Possible Final Season
LeBron James, now 40 years old and approaching 41, is showing signs of the inevitable effects of Father Time on his once-dominant athleticism. While he was still a powerful two-way player during the pandemic bubble, his performance levels have noticeably declined since leaving Cleveland. Many reporters and analysts suggest the 2025-26 NBA season could be James’ last, marking the end of an era.
Lakers insider Dave McMenamin recently revealed there has been no extension discussion between LeBron’s camp and the Lakers. According to McMenamin, James’ agent Rich Paul confirmed the absence of such talks is due to the Lakers not initiating any contract extension proposals.
I think we have to start thinking about (how) this could be his last year in the league… Rich Paul told me there was no extension talk ‘cuz we didn’t ask for the extension. We didn’t broach the subject.
—Dave McMenamin, Lakers Insider
LeBron is expected to earn $52.6 million this season, placing him among the league’s top earners. Despite recent struggles, his legendary career includes 21 All-Star selections and unparalleled achievements. A poignant chapter of his life includes fulfilling the dream of sharing the court with his son, Bronny James. As speculation mounts, fans and analysts await confirmation of the official curtain call on his iconic basketball journey.
Former Homegrown Stars and Lakers’ Roster Transition Challenges
During LeBron’s time in Los Angeles, the Lakers sacrificed many promising draft picks and young talents in hopes of maximizing championship windows. Players such as Lonzo Ball, Brandon Ingram, Kyle Kuzma, Josh Hart, and Julius Randle, once pillars of hope for the Lakers’ future, have been traded or allowed to depart. Their departures underscored the franchise’s urgency to build a championship-caliber team around James and Anthony Davis, even if it meant risking long-term team stability.
This approach stirred tension among segments of the Lakers’ fan base who saw the franchise shift away from developing young talent toward one focused primarily on short-term success for LeBron. Although the 2020 title provided a highlight, subsequent seasons failed to meet the high standards expected by one of the NBA’s most storied franchises.
Broader NBA Reaction and Media Coverage Reflect Divided Opinions
LeBron James has endured polarized opinions throughout his NBA journey, and his Lakers tenure continues this trend. While many praise his overall legacy and contributions to the game, critics like Dave Portnoy vocalize strong disapproval of what they perceive as underachievement in Los Angeles. Media outlets have spotlighted these views, fueling debate about how LeBron’s Lakers years will be remembered.
As his career edges toward its conclusion, discussions around James’ impact focus not just on individual accolades but on his ability to lead the Lakers back to their historic dominance. Fans, analysts, and former players are closely watching how the franchise will evolve once LeBron eventually steps off the court for good.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for the Lakers and LeBron James?
With uncertainty surrounding LeBron James’ future and no extension talks underway, the Lakers face critical decisions about their direction post-James. The franchise, long celebrated for legends like Kobe Bryant, aims to restore its winning identity while managing the transition from the LeBron era. How they rebuild their roster and develop new stars will be pivotal.
For LeBron, the imminent end of his career invites reflection on a journey filled with historic highs and contentious lows. While some remember his seven seasons with the Lakers fondly, others will view that period as one marked by frustration and missed opportunities, a sentiment vividly captured by voices like Dave Portnoy. As the 2025-26 season unfolds, all eyes will remain on both the Lakers’ fortunes and the final chapters of LeBron James’ distinguished basketball legacy.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Who unfollowed LeBron James?
A. Rest was LeBron’s key method for helping his body recover completely, ensuring he could perform his best every day. He mentioned sleeping for 8 to 9 hours each night. If he doesn’t reach that amount, he takes naps lasting up to 2.5 hours during the day.
Q. Why did Drake unfollow LeBron James?
A. It seems they could have been correct. James might have upset Drake by going to Kendrick Lamar’s “Pop Out” concert in June. During that time, Drake and Lamar’s ongoing conflict was very intense, with both artists releasing diss tracks to outdo each other.