The criticism surrounding LeBron James isn’t coming from random corners of the internet anymore. This time, it’s coming from within the family. A former Los Angeles Lakers great has openly questioned LeBron’s place in L.A., and that didn’t sit well with Shannon Sharpe. On his latest podcast, Sharpe made it clear he was genuinely confused by the steady wave of criticism aimed at LeBron, especially from former players who understand just how hard it is to carry a franchise.
As the debate heats up, what started as routine sports talk has turned into something bigger. With voices like Byron Scott adding fuel to the fire, the conversation now goes beyond stats and into legacy, loyalty and what LeBron’s presence has really meant for the Lakers.
While discussing the comments made by Scott, Shannon Sharpe shared his thoughts on his show “Night Cap” with Chad Ochocinco. Sharpe said, “The thing is, I don’t know when this started to happen that guys from an organization great guys from an organization call out guys that are currently in the organization. Maybe this is a Kobe thing, LeBron was never really accepted. Even though he really revitalized the Lakers organisation. I don’t care what anybody says and I think the fans, they know that. If LeBron does not come, the Lakers are not selling for a billion dollars. You’re not going to be able to get Luka because you don’t get AD, AD is not coming to LA. I don’t know what LeBron did to piss so many great players off.”
Former Laker Byron Scott says it’s time for LeBron to GTFO of LA. Unc doesn’t understand what LeBron did to piss so many people off 👀🤨 @ShannonSharpe | @Ochocinco | #Nightcap pic.twitter.com/yx1d3Hz6bG
— Nightcap (@NightcapShow_) March 2, 2026
Scott who is a three-time NBA champion with the Lakers didn’t dance around the topic when discussing LeBron James. He said LeBron’s recent comments about today’s NBA being tougher than the 80s were “laughable” and strongly disagreed with the comparison. Scott pointed to how physical the game used to be and said there’s no debate when it comes to which era was more demanding.
He also made his stance on LeBron’s future with the Los Angeles Lakers clear. When asked if it was time for James to leave, Scott laughed and said yes. While he called himself a fan, he added that he believes this should be LeBron’s final season in Los Angeles, making it clear he thinks both sides are ready to move on.
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This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Mar 2, 2026, where it first appeared in the NBA section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
