LeBron James keeps past differences aside with ex-co-star Russell Westbrook, puts him on his level in one aspect

LeBron James kept his past differences aside with former co-star Russell Westbrook with his latest statement on the Denver Nuggets point guard. LeBron put Westbrook on his level after claiming that he could transition easily into the NFL apart from him.

The Lakers star made these comments during his anticipated appearance on Travis Kelce and Jason Kelce's podcast, "New Heights," during an episode released Wednesday.

"I think Russ would be an unbelievable strong safety or free safety," LeBron said. "He comes with that natural aggression off the top. He got that Derwin James type of aggression." (23:43)

(LeBron's comments transcribed via Spotify)

The Lakers star listed these two players after claiming that NBA players can transition into the NFL better than the other way around. LeBron James also put Anthony Edwards in that conversation among the players, who he thinks can make a clean transition.

It may come as a surprise for some to see LeBron heap praise on Russell Westbrook after their turbulent tenure together with the Lakers. The duo failed to take the Lakers to championship heights in their first season as they fell to a 33-49 record, failing to make the playoffs.

Westbrook was eventually traded in February 2023. Since then, the duo hasn't seen eye-to-eye, even before games, where they have been seemingly reluctant to greet each other.

Lebron daps up all the Clippers starters at mid-court except for Russell Westbrook, who waits under the basket for him to finish byu/AashyLarry innba

---

Russell Westbrook seems to have overcome his shortcomings that held him back on LeBron James-led Lakers

Russell Westbrook joined the LA Lakers with championship-or-bust expectations. Against all odds, it turned out to be the latter. Westbrook was a shadow of his prime self. His regression was evident, and the immediate changes in his playing style are something he failed to adapt to as LeBron James' teammate. Both provided the same skillset, making it an awkward fit.

However, three years later, Westbrook seems more comfortable with the Denver Nuggets while playing next to other ball-dominant players like Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray. The 36-year-old has adapted to his role as an off-ball player. Westbrook has averaged 16.8 points, 7.5 rebounds and 7.4 assists on 49.5% shooting in January.

In that stretch, he had one 20-point triple-double and three 20-point games. The Nuggets are rolling with him in the starting lineup, improving to 14-4 in that setting.