The LA Clippers have been going through a rough phase. Despite bringing in James Harden, they’ve not yet fully recovered from a poor start to the season. However, they’re definitely on the rise now, especially with Russell Westbrook willing to make big sacrifices for the team. Recently, he was hailed by his coach for being a true leader of the team.
But it seems like Westbrook’s efforts are not going to be enough to get the Clippers out of this slump. At least that is what an NBA veteran believes, who also said that an important member is constantly being put in difficult spots.
Russell Westbrook’s ultimate sacrifice
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There is no denying that Westbrook is the most important figure in the team. Although the Clippers are a stacked squad with players like Harden, Paul George, and Kawhi Leonard, the leadership responsibilities fall on the 35-year-old. Although he doesn’t have a big game yet this season, Westbrook is averaging 13.2 points per game with 6.3 rebounds and 5.4 assists. What’s more impressive is that he is willing to do whatever it takes to help his team win. Recently, he led the team by example for which he received praise from fans and management alike.
Despite being a superstar player, Westbrook agreed to come off the bench, if it helped their coach Ty Lue execute his plans better. The Clippers are in the process of building their team. Now that they have Harden on the roster as well, they need to figure out the combinations that will work. However, this rebuilding means that there will be major adjustments made and Westbrook has stood in front, prepared for the ultimate sacrifice. Lue said that this shows just how great Westbrook is as a leader and because he is allowing the team their time to figure things out, he is making the ultimate contribution to the process.
Kenyon Martin says Ty Lue is being put in a tough position coaching the Clippers. pic.twitter.com/ZEuwosvCqG
? Gilbert Arenas (@GilsArenaShow) November 20, 2023
However, it seems like now everyone is focusing on Westbrook while the Clippers try to bounce back from a six-game losing streak.
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NBA veteran expresses his concern over Ty Lue
While the coach is happy that the players are willing to make major adjustments for the team’s benefit, NBA veteran Kenyon Martin has other concerns. During a recent episode of Gil’s Arena podcast, he said that Lue is being put in a difficult spot because of the inconsistency in the team. Martin also said that despite a few positives, he still has to make the big decisions for the team while managing egos on the roster.
Currently, the Clippers are on a two-game winning streak after their big win against the San Antonio Spurs.
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What do you think about the adjustments made by the Clippers? Are these game-winning moves? Let us know below!
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