The last season and a half have been nothing but terrible for Russell Westbrook. Sure, there were a few bright moments for him during his stint as a member of the Los Angeles Lakers, but for the most part, he struggled in forging a good relationship with the fans and his teammates.
Now, Russell Westbrook has signed a new deal with the Los Angeles Clippers after completing his buyout with the Utah Jazz. Since becoming a member of the Clippers, Westbrook has shown nothing but happiness. Even during his first training session with the Clippers, Westbrook was all smiles.
During the introductory press conference with the team, Westbrook decided to take a subtle shot at his former teammates and fans.
Russ says he’s happy to join a team where the players and fans want him there 💀 pic.twitter.com/UVU84CZhPr
— LakeShowYo (@LakeShowYo) February 23, 2023
“That’s a huge part, man, for anybody, for any normal human being in any situation in the workplace. A lot of teammates and people who want you here, that’s very important to me. I value that a lot. I have been in this league a long time and being somewhere where people want you in there, appreciate you, that means a lot to me.”
The tone that Westbrook used while giving his answer gave away the fact that he was taking a shot at the former Lakers fans and teammates. Literally, Russell was saying that the Clippers wanted him instead of the Lakers who traded him, and also, the Clipper fans appreciate his presence instead of the Lakers fans who booed him a lot during his time with the team.
Also, keep in mind that the Lakers wouldn’t execute the trade of Russell Westbrook without LeBron James and Anthony Davis’ approval, which means the Lakers players also didn’t want him there either.
Russell Westbrook And The Lakers’ Relationship Got Toxic
For a few months, it felt like Westbrook, and the Lakers could genuinely find a way to work together. However, it was later revealed that in the weeks leading to the NBA Trade Deadline, Westbrook apparently became a toxic presence in the Lakers’ locker room.
The Lakers believe there is an addition-by-subtraction element to dealing the nine-time All-Star. The situation had become untenable over the past week or so, multiple team and league sources close to the situation told The Athletic, all of whom were granted anonymity so that they could speak freely. Two sources described the situation as “toxic.” And while Lakers owner Jeanie Buss was known to be against the idea of waiving Westbrook, sources say there was a strong sense from the coaching staff that it might be necessary if no trade was forthcoming.
The situation had became beyond repair between the two sides, and it was for the best that they parted ways. Now, Westbrook is with a team where he can have a shot at winning the NBA title, while the Lakers got valuable trade pieces in return for Brodie to make a push for the playoffs.
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