Footage Emerges Showing LeBron Ignoring Westbrook Before Tip-Off

The initial clash of the 2023-24 season involving the Los Angeles Lakers and the LA Clippers lived up to the hype. The Lakers clinched a thrilling 130-125 overtime victory thanks to Austin Reaves' heroics. LeBron James contributed an impressive 35 points, while Anthony Davis added 27 of his own.

While this win is significant for the Lakers, who are eager to prove their ability to start strong after a slow beginning that affected their playoff prospects last year, fans couldn't help but notice an intriguing incident that unfolded before Wednesday night's tip-off.

LeBron James Notably Excludes Russell Westbrook From Pregame Greetings

Before the Wednesday evening game began, LeBron James dapped up most of his competitors. Notably, he and his former teammate, Russell Westbrook, did not embrace.



The tension and awkwardness in the video is remarkable, similar to going to a party where your ex-partner is present, trying to make it comfortable while the thick tension lingers.

Westbrook, positioned beneath the basket during the greetings, seems to wait until James finishes his pleasantries before joining the others at centre court for the tip-off. Some have noted Westbrook's tendency to isolate himself during pre-game routines, but eager fans seeking drama might see this video differently.

Westbrook, who was traded to the Jazz last season and subsequently signed with the Clippers, returning to the City of Stars, had a disappointing tenure with the Lakers. He fell significantly short of expectations, and was an incredibly inefficient scorer with the Lakers.

The catalyst for this situation may have been comments made by Russell Westbrook before the game. He made it clear that he was dissatisfied with his role and believed he was being used completely wrong with the Lakers.



With this new animosity added to the mix, along with the Clippers' recent acquisition of James Harden, any game between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Los Angeles Clippers is bound to be must-see TV.

You can view this intense matchup between the Lakers and Clippers in the video below:


Credits:
FanSided