The Los Angeles Lakers surprised a lot of NBA people when they opted to bring Russell Westbrook back for a second season with the team. Based on how things went in Year 1 in Los Angeles, the smart money would have been on Westbrook not remaining with the team.
But, the front office decided to run things back with Westbrook teaming up with LeBron James and Anthony Davis once again. However, there could be some changes made with Darvin Ham taking over as head coach.
Last season, Westbrook was entrenched as the team’s starting point guard. Part of that was out of necessity as the depth in the backcourt was lacking with Kendrick Nunn injured.
Another part was head coach Frank Vogel seemingly having his hands tied, as he may not have been allowed to remove Westbrook from the starting lineup.
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This season, that could all change. The Lakers have a lot of options to start in their backcourt. With James still more than capable of being the lead ball-handler and playmaker, that should make an impact on who starts in the backcourt as well.
“We’re a ways away. I mean, we have several options,” Ham said about setting his starters. “You know, obviously we signed Dennis, we signed Pat Bev, we got a healthy Kendrick Nunn, along with Russell himself, Austin Reaves, we have a variety of options to fulfill in our backcourt.”
Coming off the bench is something that Westbrook hasn’t done since his rookie season. He stepped into the starting lineup in his 18th game in the NBA, on November 29th, 2008 and the rest is history; he has started every game he has played since that point.
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After seemingly being unwilling to change his style of play or role with the team, Westbrook has seemingly had a change of heart. He is ready to do whatever it takes to help the team win some games.
“Man, I think I’m just excited to get on the floor, excited to compete, excited to play,” Westbrook said. “I’m looking forward to just start of the season, whatever unfolds, unfolds. I’m just happy and blessed to be able to go play the game I love again.”
That is definitely the right mindset for Westbrook to have coming into the season. He should be as motivated as anyone to put last season’s debacle behind them and to get his career back on track.
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While his future may not lie in Los Angeles long-term, he is part of the team for now. Westbrook needs to make the most of this opportunity as it could be a successful one with everyone bought in.
