The 2021-22 season was somewhat of a disaster for the Los Angeles Lakers. Russell Westbrook, LeBron James, and Anthony Davis failed to reach the playoffs, warranting some major changes. Consequently, with the team acquiring Max Christie, the Lakers will be looking at a better campaign next season.
That being said, a bad campaign gave rise to some pretty harsh critics and brutal trolls along the way. Commentator Skip Bayless was among them.
Yoooo? watch your mouth. Don?t say anything here you wouldn?t say to my face. https://t.co/0u8nFXYLY8
— Russell Westbrook (@russwest44) June 25, 2022
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Unsurprisingly, Bayless ended up taking a dig at the Lakers and Russell Westbrook about Christie’s signing. This time, however, Westbrook was ready to snap back at Bayless. Fans ended up supporting the Lakers star, tired of Bayless’ constant comments.
Russell Westbrook calls out Skip Bayless
To anyone familiar with James and his NBA journey know about Bayless’ harsh comments. With the Los Angeles Lakers underperforming this season, Bayless constantly reached out to call out their performances. As Westbrook was the superstar traded to make it all better, Bayless and other trolls ended up singling him out at times.
The 2016-2017 NBA MVP lashed out on Twitter, asking Bayless not to say anything he would not say face-to-face. Bayless was once again insulting his shooting, comparing it to Christie’s.
The fans were with Westbrook on this one.
I?m so sick of Bayless- he is the epitome of a coward. I?m so sorry that he continues to use his platform to disrespect your family!!!
— Holly Robinson Peete ???? (@hollyrpeete) June 25, 2022
https://twitter.com/BolWrld/status/1540488567927050242?s=20&t=tgZi7GgysOQumK5C7qM_EA
prove em wrong this year ?
— LakeShowYo (@LakeShowYo) June 25, 2022
He probably would punch him which might no be a bad thing considering it?s Skip!!!
— Calvin Thomas (@climb4success) June 25, 2022
To his credit, he?s been ignoring this for 14 yrs. Sometimes enough is enough. Plus this is an emotional day for a lot of folks.
— The Artist Formerly Known As JB (@BrunsonBurner_) June 25, 2022
Users seemed to think that Westbrook has had enough from Skip, and needed to retaliate. Many wondered what he would do if they actually met. Certain fans hoped that Westbrook would call Bayless out, and then prove everyone wrong on the court this year.
Is Westbrook’s criticism justified?
Though many-sided with Westbrook, some felt the criticism is valid. Westbrook shot 44.4% from the field while averaging 18.5 points and 7.4 rebounds per game. Everyone expected more, especially with LeBron James and Anthony Davis on board. Furthermore, the Lakers traded Kyle Kuzma, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, and Montrezl Harrell for Westbrook, along with their 2021 first-round pick.
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With Westbrook being who he is, better results were expected.
In the end, the Lakers seem to be trying to right their wrongs. They have let go of head coach Frank Vogel, hiring Darvin Ham. Additionally, one can only expect more changes as the 2022-23 season approaches.
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Do you think the Lakers and Westbrook can do better? Let us know in the comments below.