Friction Between Lakers And Russell Westbrook Increase After Frank Vogel Openly Disagrees With Him

Things in the Los Angeles Lakers camp seem to be moving in an uncomfortable manner. It all started off with Russell Westbrook saying he deserves to be in the closing lineup for the Lakers after suffering a horrendous defeat against Milwaukee Bucks. Brodie has struggled to make his impact and Vogel has kept him on the bench in crunch time. And it seems he isn’t changing from his stand.

While speaking to the media, Vogel went right back at Russ and said the team’s win is the most important priority. Hence, Vogel will do what is best for the team at the time.

There is no doubt Westbrook is one of the best players of this generation. However, with his stint with the Lakers, things haven’t fallen in place. He is yet to deliver on all the expectations as the former MVP continues to struggle in the purple and gold uniform. This is the reason Frank Vogel takes the tough choice of benching him late in the game. However, it seems the friction between these two is increasing by the day.

Lakers drama continues

While speaking to the media, Russ’ comments about being in the closing lineup came up. While the guard thinks he should be in the closing lineup, Vogel had a straightforward response and said he will do what is necessary for getting a Laker win. Hence, Westbrook’s game will determine if he stays in the closing lineup or not.

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He said: “The needs of the team always come first. Russ has accomplished a lot in this league and he’s had some great games and sequences for us here. But my job is to win games and when you get in those situations, you have a script of who you believe is gonna be in there and the game will tell you otherwise if a change is needed. so, we have to be willing to do whatever it takes to get the Lakers a win.”

In conclusion

Lately, Russ hasn’t been on his best for the Lakers. His shooting struggles have heightened. In addition, he isn’t the primary playmaker on the team. Hence, his rhythm towards the end of the game now become more crucial than ever. And for Vogel, it becomes a game-time decision to pay the best five to win. Therefore, the coach isn’t to blame here.

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Over is last 5 games, Russ has shot under 40% in four of those games. He has struggled to get points on the board. Being the third superstar on the team, the Lakers expect a lot more from him. Hence, with Vogel benching him late in the game, it all comes down to his overall night.

Do you think Russ will bounce back for the purple and gold? Let us know in the comments below.