Russell Westbrook has come in for ruthless criticism ever since he joined the Los Angeles Lakers, his performances have left fans of the franchise frustrated. There have been calls to trade the former MVP, with many pinning all of the inconsistencies the Lakers have on Westbrook. However, great players have a way of shutting up their doubters and Russ did just that on Monday night.
One of the biggest gripes fans have had with Westbrook is his tendency to shoot poorly in the clutch but he got the crucial and-1 play in their win against the Utah Jazz to seal the game for the Lakers. This came after he also put Rudy Gobert on a poster during the game.
This came after he also put Rudy Gobert on a poster during the game. Westbrook addressed his epic dunk, reminding the world that he still has it in his locker.
Russell Westbrook on dunking on Rudy Gobert: "It's still something I can do."
— Ryan Ward (@RyanWardLA) January 18, 2022
Westbrook: “”It’s still something I can do.”
RUSS THROWS IT DOWN ON GOBERT 😤 pic.twitter.com/By47KXHlIb
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) January 18, 2022
Westbrook didn’t have a statistically brilliant night but he made the plays that crucially ensure that the Lakers were able to get the win. This is what seemed to have turned the opinions of some fans on social media, who reacted by praising Russ for finally stepping up when it matters.
max7ave: “This the Russ I grew up watching.”
quansoicy: “Trying his hardest not to get traded.”
miserablePhillyfan: “I enjoy seeing Russ happy man, it’s been a while.”
tjbuenavides: “Everyone misses this Russ.”
merrittgregory: “Russ playing better now after that diss track.”
Christian: “Now this is the Russ that the Lakers have been missing.”
miguel ntirampeba: “Vintage Russ is back!”
Westgoat: “Russ had enough of the slander.”
varigte: “Man, if only he can play like this every game, Lakers gonna be a problem.”
fessti: “That was super clutch from Russ.”
Obviously, this is just the beginning for Westbrook, he needs to carry on making the right plays at the right time if he wants to truly be loved in LA. However, it was an excellent reminder of why Russ is one of the best to ever do it in the NBA and that the Lakers could truly be a force if they can find a way to integrate him into their plans.
