While many people think the addition of Patrick Beverley pretty much confirms that Russell Westbrook is gone, Kendrick Perkins had a different idea when talking about the two Los Angeles Lakers guards. The former player-turned-analyst is well known for his interesting takes and recently dropped one that shocked a lot of people.
During a recent edition of ESPN’s First Take, the 2008 NBA champion claimed that instead of fighting each other or forcing one to leave the team, they could create a terrific backcourt that could put a lot of pressure on rivals on the defensive end.
Moreover, he said that Russ needs to bring a new mindset to the Lakers if he wants to impact the Lakers this upcoming season.
“Patrick Beverley and Russell Westbrook actually could be the most dangerous defensive backcourt in the NBA.”
He doubled down on these comments on Twitter, saying that Russ should aspire to make an All-Defensive Team this upcoming campaign term.
Russell Westbrook is arguably the most athletic guard to ever play the game of basketball… and his goal this season should be to make an All-Defensive team for the 1st time in his career! Carry the hell on… https://t.co/VSW6b5cktB
— Kendrick Perkins (@KendrickPerkins) August 26, 2022
Russell Westbrook is arguably the most athletic guard to ever play the game of basketball… and his goal this season should be to make an All-Defensive team for the 1st time in his career! Carry the hell on…
This is an interesting idea from Perkins, but it remains to be seen if that’ll happen. Darvin Ham has claimed that he wants Russ to become a defensive-minded player, which aligns with Perk’s thoughts. Still, the Lakers appear to be ready to make a big move that involves Westbrook, probably for Myles Turner and Buddy Hield.
The Lakers still have a lot to handle with Westbrook, but time will tell if the player survives this offseason and prove that he can be a valuable piece next season.
