Russell Westbrook has been haggled by the Lakers for several weeks, without much success so far. There have been discussions with the Nets in particular, but impossible to reach an agreement. If the situation does not change, the franchise will be forced to make a strong decision regarding the point guard, similar to John Wall.
Will Russell Westbrook leave the Lakers before the resumption? Good luck finding out the answer. We know that the Lakers have discussed with the Nets, or the Pacers, but no one can reach an agreement. The problem remains the counterpart, since Rob Pelinka refuses to give up too many draft rounds to let go of the leader. As it stands, Brodie will therefore be in the same place next September, after a chat with LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
On paper, everyone wants to do it again if necessary, with the desire to win a title. Darvin Ham is even quite confident, since the new coach is convinced that his player can shine in his system, and asks for a simple chance. No room for error for Westbrook, who should start dating, at least at the start of the regular season. If the performances are not there, we imagine that Russ will find the bench, which could create some tensions.
Westbrook soon to be sidelined from the Lakers?
Knowing the behavior of the player, the Angelinos must be prepared for all scenarios, including the sidelining of Westbrook. A scenario similar to John Wall at the Rockets, who had waxed the bench while waiting for his departure. It’s obviously not confirmed yet, but an NBA agent thinks it’s the best solution. He spoke to Bleacher Report.
They’re better off without Russ, very clearly, and he won’t come off the bench. He’ll keep complaining, because he thinks he’s still old Russ, capable of anything. You have to do a John Wall with him, and take your time. The team can’t lose this trade, and everyone knows it. Trading because you have to trade is a horrible mentality.
Wall has found a franchise with the Clippers, where he will play in the fall. The leader is very motivated, to the point that he agrees to play a role behind Kawhi Leonard and Paul George. An appreciable mentality, and which should allow him to flourish in the City of Angels, at least if he manages to find a fairly interesting level of play. Wall even says he is ready to come off the bench, he who wants above all to win.
The question being: does Westbrook is ready to make the same sacrifices? Officially, the answer is no. He should start the matches, but it is not impossible that Ham will change his mind over the matches, depending on the collective results. If Brodie refuses to adapt, then a trade will be inevitable. At least the supporters will be fixed on the behavior of the point guard.
Worst-case scenario, Russell Westbrook could follow a similar path to John Wall. A sideline while waiting for a trade, but above all a new role for the end of his career, where he would no longer be a pillar of the roster. An end that seems inevitable.