There has recently been a lot of talk about the NBA changing the rules on how the referees call 3PT fouls. The new style of officiating intends to cut down on unnatural shooting motions by perimeter players, which would result in fouls being given last season.
The NBA’s new rules on shooting fouls have certainly been popular. Warriors coach Steve Kerr notably spoke out in support of the NBA changing the foul rule recently, and during the Olympics, Jared Dudley suggested that the NBA should adopt some of the FIBA rules, as players were manipulating the NBA’s previous foul rules.
The foul-hunting rules will certainly affect some players more than others, though the best stars will obviously be able to adapt their play to the new officiating. However, some players will not be affected by the new rule much due to their styles of play. Lakers star guard Russell Westbrook has recently stated that he’ll “be alright” when asked about the new rules, as well as roasting himself and joking that “not too many people” are jumping at him when he’s shooting from the perimeter.
shouts to @DanWoikeSports for asking Russ this question about getting fouled on a 3-point attempt, sacrificing himself for this content pic.twitter.com/o9giVJPSgE
— Kyle Goon (@kylegoon) October 13, 2021
Shit not for me. Ain’t too many people flying at me, so I’ll be alright.
Russell Westbrook isn’t the best shooter, and the numbers support that, with his career 3PT percentage being 30.5%. However, even if he isn’t an elite shooter, Westbrook is an amazing player who is adept at slashing to the rim and getting his teammates easy shots with his playmaking ability. Westbrook isn’t known as someone who seeks to draw contact on the perimeter, which means he’ll have no trouble adjusting to 3PT fouls being called differently.
On the Los Angeles Lakers, Russell Westbrook is surrounded by lots of 3PT shooters who will help create spacing for his drives by being perimeter threats. There are two other elite stars in LeBron James and Anthony Davis to help him carry the offensive load. These are the perfect conditions for Russell Westbrook to succeed, and perhaps he’ll be the missing piece that helps the Lakers find championship success once again.
