Jaden Ivey's Controversial Remarks Lead to Viral Lakers Signing Rumors

The former Bulls guard's recent Instagram Live video sparked widespread reaction across the NBA.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 6:36pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting fragmented basketball players and court elements in a mix of red, black, and gold, representing the tension and uncertainty surrounding Jaden Ivey's career after his controversial remarks.The viral rumors surrounding Jaden Ivey's NBA future reflect the complex intersection of personal beliefs, professional sports, and public perception.Chicago Today

Jaden Ivey, a former 5th overall draft pick, found himself at the center of a viral rumor claiming he had signed with the Los Angeles Lakers following his controversial remarks and subsequent release from the Chicago Bulls. While the reports were unverified, social media exploded with posts mimicking insider scoops about Ivey's supposed one-year deal with the Lakers.

Why it matters

Ivey's controversial Instagram Live video, in which he criticized the NBA's celebration of Pride Month and questioned the eternal value of professional accolades, led to his swift release from the Bulls. The incident has raised questions about the league's handling of players' personal beliefs and the potential consequences they may face for expressing them publicly.

The details

Ivey, who had only appeared in 4 games for the Bulls after being traded from the Detroit Pistons, took to Instagram Live to rant about the NBA's Pride Month celebrations and how they don't align with his Christian faith. He specifically called out stars like Stephen Curry, LeBron James, and Michael Jordan, stating that their basketball accomplishments 'won't matter on Judgment Day.' The Bulls acted quickly, waiving Ivey shortly after the video's circulation, citing conduct that violated team standards.

  • Ivey was traded from the Detroit Pistons to the Chicago Bulls in February 2026.
  • Ivey appeared in just 4 games for the Bulls before being waived on April 1, 2026.
  • Ivey's controversial Instagram Live video was posted shortly before his release from the Bulls.

The players

Jaden Ivey

A 24-year-old guard who was the 5th overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft. He had stints with the Detroit Pistons and Chicago Bulls before being waived due to his controversial remarks.

Chicago Bulls

The NBA team that waived Jaden Ivey following his controversial Instagram Live video, citing conduct that violated team standards.

Stephen Curry

An NBA superstar who Jaden Ivey called out in his controversial remarks, stating that his basketball accomplishments 'won't matter on Judgment Day.'

LeBron James

An NBA superstar who Jaden Ivey called out in his controversial remarks, stating that his basketball accomplishments 'won't matter on Judgment Day.'

Michael Jordan

An NBA legend who Jaden Ivey called out in his controversial remarks, stating that his basketball accomplishments 'won't matter on Judgment Day.'

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What they’re saying

“Guard Jaden Ivey is expected to sign a two-year contract with the Los Angeles Lakers upon clearing waivers tomorrow, sources tell ESPN. Ivey will look for a fresh start after recent troubling off-court behavior that led to his exit from the Chicago Bulls.”

— Reddit User

“BREAKING: Jaden Ivey is nearing a one-year, $6.5M deal with the Los Angeles Lakers, expected to sign once he clears waivers after a controversial exit from Chicago. God's name will be glorified at the end of the day”

— X User

What’s next

Ivey's NBA future remains uncertain, as he must now find a new team willing to take a chance on him despite the controversy surrounding his recent remarks and release from the Bulls. The overseas route could also be an option if no NBA teams are willing to sign him.

The takeaway

Jaden Ivey's controversial comments about the NBA's Pride Month celebrations and his subsequent release from the Chicago Bulls have sparked a viral rumor about him signing with the Los Angeles Lakers. This incident highlights the delicate balance between players' personal beliefs and the league's desire to promote inclusivity, raising questions about how the NBA will handle similar situations in the future.