‘It’s Different’: Carmelo Anthony Talks About Russell Westbrook’s Role Shift From Thunder to Lakers

The Los Angeles Lakers acquired veteran guard Russell Westbrook in a trade deal recently. Along with their existing powerhouse duo, LeBron James and Anthony Davis, Westbrook is the third dominant personality in the Lakers’ starting lineup. So, how is Frank Vogel planning on fixing these big pieces together?

Other than the triple-double icon gracing the Lakers team, a number of experienced ones have entered the setup. The likes of Carmelo Anthony, recently acquired from Trail Blazers, Dwight Howard and Rajon Rondo are back to playing off the bench. All in all, it is a star-studded lineup that is preparing to win a championship in 2022.

The dynamics of Bron and AD are expected to change with Westbrook coming in. The trio is offensively monstrous, and Carmelo Anthony is aware of that. Melo, who played alongside Westbrook in OKC, has witnessed the star guard as an anchor in Oklahoma. The team revolved around Westbrook. However, the situation in LA is different.

Melo says Russell Westbrook will have to be himself

The Lakers have a packed team with big stars preparing together. Melo believes the team has managed the All-stars well in order to win a ring in the upcoming season. Moreover, Westbrook’s role will see a change from being at the front end in Oklahoma to being one amongst many star players in LA.

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The 10-time NBA All-star elaborated – “It’s different. In OKC it was his (Westbrook) show and he was the anchor of that. I think we did a great job of putting this (Lakers) group together so that everybody can be there on their own anchor and within what we’re trying to accomplish…So, Russ have to be who Russ is. Him coming here, him coming home and that’s always a different feeling.”

Westbrook comes back home to Los Angeles

Russell Westbrook is returning home, having been born in California, LA. As Melo mentioned, playing at your home ground is a special feeling. And Westbrook will have that advantage to himself. But, certain roles will change for him. With LeBron driving the offense, Westbrook will have a different front as a player.

The last team Westbrook played for was the Washington Wizards, alongside the talented Bradley Beal. Well, this time, LeBron James and Anthony Davis have a new buddy on the court to thrash their opponents. Fans are yearning to witness the trio play during the 2021-22 regular season. We’re yet to find out how well the Lakers have put together this veteran squad. Let us know your thoughts in the comments.

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