Getty ImagesWith Lamar Odom reportedly checking into rehab, one of his former teammates, Josh Powell, has spoken to E! News about their time on and off the court as well as sharing his thoughts about what Khloé Kardashian Odom's husband is going through right now.
While playing together for the Los Angeles Lakers, the two men developed a friendship and Powell recalled Odom's "spirit" and how he was "very fun to be around."
"He had a big heart, and really wanted to help people. Just seeing how he loved to help people," he said. "He was just a great energy to be around. When you come across people like that, you kind of take that with you as you mature and grow."
As for Odom's recent troubles, which include being arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence and struggles with substance abuse, Powell noted he didn't have knowledge of any of it other than what he has heard and read lately.
"Honestly, just the things I've been seeing," he said. "We never had a conversation about it."
Powell added, "The only thing I can do is, I'm praying for him heavily. I hope he is able to find peace, and get back to the Lamar everyone loves and knows. We all love him. It's very difficult to see him going through what he's going through right now."