After two tough seasons, the Los Angeles Lakers make a successful comeback. The Lakers had a difficult 2021-22 season. Even though they managed to secure a 10th place, the team failed to compete in the Play-In Tournament. The players made many mistakes during the year. The team had made multiple changes to their rosters and player roles, but without success.
Russell Westbrook is the new member of the Laker team. Russ Westbrook averaged 18 point, seven rebounds and seven assists in the previous season. He was neither the best shooter nor the most gifted facilitator on the team. Westbrook had an average of nearly four turnovers per season. Although the former MVP remains a good player, it wasn’t his best season as a Laker.
Russ was dealt to the Clippers by way of Utah in February. He had played 52 Lakers games, all as a reserve. Westbrook had 16 points, 6 rebounds and 7 assists about halfway through the season. Russ played better as the Lakers’ sixth man, even though his performance was slightly better in some aspects than it had been last year. Westbrook told Patrick Beverley that the Lakers were in the second round and he wanted to acknowledge himself. “Hey Pat! Lakers win. I want my ring.” Beverley said in his podcast.
The story was known by both the critics and the fans. Skip Bayless wasn’t so lenient with Russ. Skip Bayless did not let Russ’ words slide. Skip said that he believed he was the main reason why the Lakers were headed to miss the playoffs .”. Westbrook left the team with a 25-30 record. The Lakers had a happy time before Westbrook’s departure.
Russell Westbrook’s departure is best for him and his team
After his departure, the Lakers finished the season on an 18-9 streak. The Lakers were able to reach the Play-In round of the playoffs with this run.
Westbrook, on the other side, had his time in the Clippers as he appeared to be the missing piece. The Clippers were eliminated from the first round due to injuries.
Russ’s suggestion that he deserved a ring was not the best thing to do, even though he had certainly proven himself in the playoffs. It will be fascinating to see if the Lakers can overcome all odds and take home the title.
