Russell Westbrook had a very difficult time with the Los Angeles Lakers. Overall, his skill set did not fit what that team needed. Although he eventually became a bench player for the team, he still wasn’t playing how they were hoping him to. He was a turnover machine and had some of the worst shooting numbers in the league. Moreover, he was not the triple-double machine he used to be. Having said that, it should come as absolutely no surprise that he was traded at the deadline.
Russ was sent to the Utah Jazz, who made it clear that they wanted to buy out his deal. That is exactly what they did, making Russ a free agent. From there, Westbrook spoke to numerous teams, including the Chicago Bulls, Washington Wizards, and even the Miami Heat. However, he ultimately chose the Los Angeles Clippers. Now, he will get to play with his former Thunder teammate Paul George, as well as Kawhi Leonard.
Russell Westbrook Co-Signed
According to Brian Windhorst via RealGM, the Los Angeles Clippers actually needed to be convinced in order to sign Russ. They had no interest in doing it until Paul George stepped in. From there, the rest was history as Westbrook looks to make his Clippers debut soon. “The Clippers are pretty much admitting Paul George drove this decision,” Windhorst said. “And from what I understand, they were internally against it at the start. Paul pushed for it publicly and privately. Kawhi {Leonard} supported it. And they looked more into it, and they were like ‘Well, you know, there are some things he can potentially help us with.’”
Needless to say, Westbrook got a very lucky break here. Overall, this could prove to be a great fit for him. However, if this goes bad, then his future is going to be up in the air. Hopefully, he can change the narratives that are now being cast on him. Let us know how you think Westbrook will fit in, down in the comments below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for more news from around the sports world.
[Via]