LeBron James has been separated from the Los Angeles Lakers this season amid on-court disputes and off-court controversy.
The NBA icon missed Sunday’s first game of the season against the Portland Trail Blazers due to soreness in his foot.
Concerns were raised after the 39-year-old missed practice on Wednesday, with head coach JJ Redick later confirming his long-term absence.
Speculation arose on social media, with users claiming LeBron James has “quit” the Los Angeles Lakers and linking his absence to Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs. However, LeBron has not addressed these rumors. ESPN reported that he is unlikely to play in Friday’s game against the Minnesota Timberwolves, citing personal reasons.
Previously, the New York Post referred to his absence as a break during a difficult period on the court. Lakers coach JJ Redick confirmed his absence was due to personal reasons, but did not provide further details. The NBA all-time points leader had set a goal of playing in all 82 games this year, but missed the first game of the season against the Blazers.
Users on Platform X, formerly known as Twitter, are pointing out the connection between LeBron’s absence and Diddy.
“LeBron James, a close friend of Diddy, is stepping away from playing for the Lakers due to ‘personal reasons’ following their worst season to date. LeBron is struggling on and off the court. has come under intense criticism for attending Diddy’s party, but his media company lost nearly $30 million last year and will likely lose even more,” one user wrote. posted on X (the platform formerly known as Twitter).
Another user referenced reports of allegations against Diddy involving three men.
“Diddy’s best friend LeBron James is leaving the Lakers for “personal reasons” hours after three men came forward and claimed that Diddy drugged and raped him.” “Does anyone else find it strange that he announced this…? 🤔,” a second user tweeted.
LeBron James and Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs share a well-documented social bond, particularly through Diddy’s famous parties, which LeBron has previously praised. In a viral Instagram Live clip, LeBron says, “There’s no party like a Diddy party.” The comments gained new attention following legal allegations against Diddy, including sex trafficking and extortion.
