The Los Angeles Lakers just pulled off one of the most polarizing and potentially impactful moves in recent NBA history. Unexpectedly, they traded for Washington Wizards’ star Russell Westbrook.
To say that Westbrook has always been a controversial player could be an understatement. While his talent is undeniable, his erratic decision-making and – lack of – shooting has made people either love him or hate him on the court.
That, plus the fact that the Lakers needed more shooters around LeBron James and Anthony Davis, raised several concerns regarding the fit of the Lakers’ new starting lineup.
Then again, LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Russell Westbrook don’t seem concerned at all. If anything, LeBron seems pretty excited about the team’s new Big 3, as he showed on Twitter:
😤😤😤🔥🔥🔥🔥 https://t.co/Nr72IxkI9S
— LeBron James (@KingJames) August 7, 2021
You can’t blame LeBron for being hyped about next season. The Lakers were good last year but weren’t healthy all year, and Westbrook has always been durable. Also, his presence will allow him and Davis to take a step back every now and then and stay fresh for the playoffs.
Yes, Westbrook isn’t the best shooter in the league. As a matter of fact, he might as well be one of the worst. But he already knows what it’s like to play next to superstars.
Westbrook has played with an elite talent for most of his career and he’s learned how to coexist with them. Not of his former teammates will tell you otherwise. So it doesn’t seem like ego will be a problem here.
Also, Rob Pelinka did an outstanding job of rounding up the Lakers roster with veteran shooters that can help them space the floor and compliment their skill set.
There will be doubts and an adjustment period, for sure. But you better don’t sleep on the Lakers’ Big 3.
