Criticism Doesn't Bother D'Angelo Russell Because Even LeBron And Jesus Faced Criticism

Lakers rookie D’Angelo Russell on facing criticism: "LeBron still gets criticism. Jesus still gets criticized."

— Baxter Holmes (@BaxterHolmes) January 30, 2016

It's not just praise that be to the most high, it's criticism as well. Doesn't matter if we are talking about the most highly regarded religious figure, most highly skilled NBA talent, or -apparently- the most highly disappointing draft pick. Not cocky at all DeAngelo, not cocky at all. Just you, LeBron, and Jesus suffering from the crippling weight of expectations. Might as well just find the nearest cross and get it out of the way now. Technically he's not wrong. If you are going to rationalize why people are knocking your game then you might as well choose two of the most accomplished people in history -whether that history be athletic or theological- to do so.

You think being a savior is a quick process? You don't just walk in off the street and get applauded before proving yourself. Jesus had to get people white girl wasted on water and cure cancer with his fingertip before people started to believe. LeBron has two championships and multiple MVP awards and he still hasn't substantiated his greatness enough for the city of Cleveland. You can say a lot about DeAngelo Russell, but don't say he doesn't have confidence in himself. Comparing the criticism he's faced as a rookie point guard on a terrible team to the criticism that LeBron James* faces for constantly letting down his hometown? Comparing his trials and tribulations to the skepticism Jesus has endured for allowing AIDS to become a thing? He must have some big plans to fail on a much larger stage. You don't publicize that correlation unless you have the intention of living up to it. Let's hope the Lakers can crawl out of the basement sometime in the next decade so that DeAngelo Russell has a chance to justify his analogy and becomes more widely condemned just like those who have attempted to persevere before him.

*You think LeBron James is more flattered to be compared to Jesus, or insulted to be compared to DeAngelo Russell? Stupid question. He probably just thinks that DeAngelo Russell referenced him twice by different names.