Russell Westbrook may not have the most concrete future in terms of being with the Los Angeles Lakers, but he is certainly in a mood to celebrate. Russ opted into his player option for the 2022-23 season and will make $47.1 million next season, something that would put just about any person on the planet in a good mood.
And Westbrook is no different. He uploaded a video of himself singing and celebrating in his car as the news of him opting in broke simultaneously, clearly in high spirits. And that seems to have carried forward, with Russ being spotted by TMZ in Los Angeles partying it up with Kevin Hart.
They seemed to be in a great mood too. When a reporter asked Kevin Hart what Russ being back for next season means for the Lakers, Hart responded by telling him it was everything. As they were asked questions while walking out of LAVO Ristorante in Los Angeles, Westbrook didn’t say much, but he was seen smiling and laughing.
Things are still far from being certain with the Lakers for Westbrook, even though reports have suggested that he will start next season on the roster. Trades are still reportedly in play for him, which will be something to keep an eye on as this offseason and the start of next season unfolds.
However, Russ has every right not to care about that at the moment. He will undoubtedly start his preparation for next season with time. For now, he seems to be cutting loose after what has been quite a torrid 2021-22 season for the former MVP.
The Lakers will have championship aspirations once again next season, but it remains to be seen if they can fulfill those with their current trio of stars. A lot will depend on the health of Anthony Davis, but if Darvin Ham can find a way to make Westbrook gel with the team, that would also provide them with a huge boost.
