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Lakers' Bogut: People need to focus on bigger issues than 'stupid political sh--'

Kevork Djansezian / Getty Images Sport / Getty

New Los Angeles Lakers center Andrew Bogut believes people need to turn their attention to more pressing matters instead of getting all riled up over politics.

"There's people dying in countries, there's people who don't have water, and we are bickering about political sides?," Bogut said to ESPN's Ohm Youngmisuk. "OK, there are some issues with what is going on right now with the presidency. There is no doubt about it. But obviously, you look at what has happened in Puerto Rico, there are earthquakes all over the world, there are bigger issues that we need to take care of as people of the world rather than focus on this stupid political sh--."

A number of NBA figures have been openly critical of U.S. President Donald Trump in recent weeks, stemming from comments made about NFL players kneeling during the national anthem, as well as a tweet he sent rescinding an invitation for Stephen Curry to visit the White House with the Golden State Warriors.

The Lakers have decided that they'll be locking arms during the playing of "The Star-Spangled Banner" throughout the 2017-18 regular season to display unity and protest social issues in a respectful manner that adheres to league rules.

"We (athletes) have a platform," Bogut added. "I speak out about (issues) all the time. I get into some trouble for it, so be it. I am going to stick to my principles."

The former No. 1 overall pick then brought up the recent mass shooting in Las Vegas, and how Republicans and Democrats used the tragedy as a means to push their respective political agendas, placing blame on Trump or Hillary Clinton.

"Let's respect the people that just passed away and respect their families. There is a time and place for the political stuff," he said.

"It is the climate that we are in, everything is so political right now. It is just a joke. Like people losing family members because one voted for this party. It is just mind-boggling to me. I have never seen the world (like this). I grew up in the '80s, I have never seen this climate. Not just in America, everywhere. You either agree with my opinion or you are wrong. Or I hate you or I want you dead. It is like, really? Both political sides are full of idiots. Both political sides are full of some good policy. I really get frustrated with it."

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