SAN DIEGO — Ron Artest says that if the Los Angeles Lakers don’t repeat as NBA champions, fans can point their fingers at him.

Artest made the statement Monday during a visit to San Diego to promote the Lakers’ exhibition game against Denver at the San Diego Sports Arena on Oct. 23.
The Lakers open training camp Sept. 29 at their headquarters in El Segundo.
Artest wore an all-black Kobe Bryant jersey as a tribute to his new teammate.