Lamar Odom Upset with Bill Plaschke Column Questioning Effect of Reality Show
Some of the criticism from Plaschke included calling the show a “cheesy series” and labeling Khloe Kardashian a “D-League celebrity.” Then Plaschke talked about Lamar getting pushed around on the show by the Kardashian women. He wrote “I’m wondering how Odom can watch or hear about himself portrayed in this manner, then go out and easily become the aggressor on the basketball court.” He says the show makes Odom look soft and he argues that its release should have been delayed until after the postseason. It was a powerful column with a lot of strong criticisms and it was poorly received by Odom.
Before Game 2 for the Lakers against the Hornets, Odom was “feeling down” according to OC Register reporter Kevin Ding. Ding also quoted Odom as saying the column crossed the line.” Odom took the criticism personally and said “If we were in a bar …”
I’ll question Lamar’s decision to commit himself to a reality TV show during the season because of the time and effort it requires, but I wouldn’t say the show has made him soft. Odom is who he is — a mellow guy who is frequently pushed around on the court. It’s always been that way and a reality TV show hasn’t taught us anything we never knew. I’m guessing Plaschke’s going to be regretting this one when the Lakers reach another Finals, though I’m sure he’ll say he was just motivating the team.