Russell Westbrook Takes Not-so-Subtle Shot at Lakers

The Los Angeles Lakers tried really hard to someone who could be the third player behind LeBron James and Anthony Davis. They got one, but he struggles to make an impact. Getting someone who is averaging 18.3 points per season wasn’t of great help for the Patriots. Russell Westbrook didn’t meet anyone’s expectations, and he even took a shot at the Lakers.

Lakers head coach Frank Vogel benched Westbrook again. He wasn’t a good fit for his winning squad, and the veteran preferred using players who can win the game. Westbrook wasn’t one of them for obvious reasons. Most NBA analysts thought that the Lakers would get rid of the veteran. There were too many rumors about his departure from LA. Westbrook had a heartbreaking moment with LeBron and AD during the game against the Milwaukee Bucks. He tried to comfort his players, but it didn’t work.

Russell Westbrook took a shot at the Lakers after dealing with stiffness in his back

Reporters asked Westbrook about his future plans, and he provided a shocking response.

“I’m looking forward to getting into the [All-Star] break, getting ready to make a splash run and that we’re moving in the direction we need to as a team, collectively,” Westbrook said. “And making sure that we try to put our best foot forward as a collective group.”

No, that’s not the shocking part of his comments. Westbrook missed the game to the Portland Trail Blazers due to tightness in his lower back. Yes, that’s when he took a shot at the Lakers and their head coach.

“I’m not accustomed to sitting down in long stretches,” Westbrook said. “Like, getting up and then, like, moving quickly. Kind of, like, stiff up a little bit.”

I guess Westbrook didn’t like the way Vogel handled his condition. Westbrook wasn’t really happy with the fact that Vogel benched him a few times. He is a talented player and ending up on the bench is not an ideal scenario.

“I shouldn’t have to hit any benchmark, to be honest,” Westbrook said after the loss to the Bucks. “I’ve put a lot of work and I’ve got a lot of respect in this game. I don’t got to hit a benchmark or I shouldn’t have to. I’ve earned a right to be in closing lineups.”

Let’s see what happens next. The Lakers own the ninth seed in the Western Conference which is far from ideal.