LeBron James is stepping away from the Los Angeles Lakers amidst both on-court struggles and off-court controversies this season.

The NBA icon missed his first game of the season on Sunday against the Portland Trail Blazers due to foot soreness.

Concerns escalated on Wednesday when the 39-year-old was absent from training, with head coach JJ Redick later confirming the extended absence.

Social media speculation arose, with users claiming LeBron James is ‘quitting’ the Los Angeles Lakers and connecting his absence to Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs. LeBron, however, has not addressed these rumors. ESPN reported he is unlikely to play on Friday against the Minnesota Timberwolves, citing personal reasons.

Earlier, The New York Post referred to his absence as a break during a challenging period on the court. Lakers coach JJ Redick acknowledged the absence, attributing it to personal matters but refrained from sharing further details. The NBA All-Time Points Leader had missed his first game of the season against the Blazers after previously setting a goal to play all 82 games this year.

Users on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, have drawn connections between LeBron’s absence and Diddy.

“LeBron James, a close friend of Diddy, is stepping away from playing for the Lakers for ‘personal reasons’ during what’s been his worst season yet. Struggling both on and off the court, LeBron has faced heavy criticism for attending Diddy’s parties, while his media company lost nearly $30 million last year and is set to lose even more,” one user posted on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter.

Another user referenced reports of allegations against Diddy involving three men. 

“Anyone else find it odd that Diddy’s Best Friend LeBron James announced he’s ‘Stepping Away’ from the Lakers for ‘Personal Reasons’ just hours after 3 Men came forward and said they were drugged and raped by Diddy..? 🤔” a second user tweeted.

LeBron James and Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs share a well-documented social connection, particularly through Diddy’s famous parties, which LeBron has previously praised. A viral Instagram Live clip shows LeBron saying, “Ain’t no party like a Diddy party.” This remark has gained renewed attention following legal allegations against Diddy, including claims of sex trafficking and racketeering.