Russell Westbrook didn’t have his best year in the league last season, but it wasn’t as bad as fans would want you to believe.
He’s been in constant trade talks all offseason, but as of right now, it doesn’t seem like the Lakers will be trading him even after they traded for Patrick Beverly, who he has beef with.
The Lakers, Lebron, Pat Bev, and new coach Darvin Ham have all defended Russ this offseason and say they can’t wait for him to play this season. You can add owner Jeanie Buss to that list too.
Buss interviewed with The Athletic’s Sam Amick and talked about Russ, saying he was the best player on the team last year.
“All I can say is that, from my point of view, [Westbrook] was our best player last year. He played pretty much every single game, showed up, worked hard. You know, I would have loved to have seen what this team would have looked like if they stayed healthy. It’s really tough to win when Anthony Davis isn’t on the court. LeBron [James] was hurt a lot of the season. But Russ showed up every game and played hard every night. And, you know, I just really appreciate him for who he is and what he brings to the team.”
She then walked back that statement by saying he was the team’s most consistent player last year.
Russ is getting a lot of praise, so I wouldn’t be surprised if he at least starts the season with the Lakers.
Darwin Ham seems to have a plan for Russell Westbrook, so he will likely stay on the team unless something drastic happens.
The Lakers players and front office have been praising him to ensure his head is in the proper place when the season starts.
Flip the page for more.
