The Lakers’ recent victory over the Wizards involved another stellar performance from LeBron James. With 50 points under his belt, the Lakers cruised to a 13 point victory and secured their 29th win of the season. It was a much-needed victory for LeBron and his squad in order to keep their playoff hopes alive.
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However, there was something noteworthy in the game apart from LeBron’s 50 piece. It was Russell Westbrook’s absence towards the end of the game. He would be subbed off for Malik Monk in the 4th quarter, and would not step on the floor again. Following the win, LeBron had a statement regarding Talen Horton-Tucker, Austin Reaves, and Malik Monk. Although he did not take Russ’ name, the Twitterverse went berserk as fans expressed opinions on the relationship between LeBron and Russ.
LeBron James’ Post Game Statements
LeBron offered praise when questioned regarding the plays made by THT, Monk, and Reaves in the fourth quarter, along with their respective growths.
“We’re on the floor for a reason in the fourth. And I expect those guys to make plays because they’re on the floor. And I know what they’re capable of,” said LeBron.
“I know what Malik is capable of. Obviously, I’ve been in the foxhole with THT, and Austin has proven himself. So, it was great to see those guys make plays down the stretch,” he explained.
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Although the reporter specifically asked for LeBron’s opinion on THT, Monk, and Reaves, LeBron’s statement of being ‘on the floor’ with the aforementioned players ‘for a reason,’ raised the eyebrows of many. This is because he did not take Russell Westbrook’s name.
Fans React to LeBron’s Statement
In reaction to LeBron’s statements following the win, many fans cited the relationship between LeBron and Westbrook, and the Lakers and Westbrook. They added that both the ‘King’ and the team were done with the star guard.
Lmao! Bron is mentally done with Russ https://t.co/SFmTwoQiU1
— Freddy (@freddyg24_) March 12, 2022
Lmaooooo he want Russ sent home too https://t.co/WxfKK4RldP
— DasCooler (@das_cooler) March 12, 2022
LePassiveAggressive 🤣 https://t.co/xbksEMDPyv
— Pog-BOOM (@arab_luqman) March 12, 2022
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They really dont want to play with Russ and if Vogel wont bench Russ and have him play with the 2nd unit, they might as well send him home at this point https://t.co/vI8XhTcc48
— Mack 🏁 (@ctv_mack) March 12, 2022
Clearly, the fans sense that the Lakers and LeBron are better off without Westbrook, especially since they beat the Wizards. Moreover, there has been plenty of finger-pointing at Russ this entire season. So, this incident just adds more fuel to the fire.
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READ MORE: Stephen Curry Vouches for Russell Westbrook Amidst Criticism From Fans
Westbrook had a poor game against the Wizards with just 5 points. So maybe Russ was benched only because he had a poor night as compared to THT, Reaves, and Monk. Regardless, it has been a poor season overall for Westbrook and it looks unlikely that he may stick with the Lakers next season.