Russell Westbrook is going through a hard patch. His debut season with the Lakers saw him struggle to find his footing. He was not able to be his most impactful version next to LeBron James and Anthony Davis. His game suffered drastically in the system the team implemented, and everyone saw the things he was not good at.
Following the major collapse of last season, many speculated that Brodie will have to look for a new home. That remains on hold for the time being, since he will have to look for a new agent first. Westbrook and his longtime agent, Thad Foucher, are said to have parted ways over a rocky offseason.
Russell Westbrook is parting ways with his agent Thad Foucher of Wasserman after 14 years together, per @wojespn
Foucher cited "irreconcilable differences" between the two, in addition to not having "full alignment" on Russ remaining with the Lakers through his contract year pic.twitter.com/rGh47YWeYc
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) July 16, 2022
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Foucher had represented Westbrook since the onset of his NBA career; however, a 14-year professional relationship collapsed. Foucher told ESPN that they parted way owing to “irreconcilable differences”. The contrasts Foucher cites here are their conflicting perspectives on what was best for Westbrook this offseason.
Foucher added in a lengthy statement to ESPN that another trade would only contribute to driving down Westbrook’s value. However, this is where their viewpoints diverged, since the player believed otherwise. This suggests that Russ might be pushing hard to leave the Lakers.
On watching this whole drama unfold, LeBron James’ agent couldn’t help but send out a cryptic tweet.
LeBron James’ agent Rich Paul sent out a cryptic tweet after Westbrook parted ways with his agent
Rich Paul is the agent of LeBron James and a bevy of other NBA superstars. He has served as The King’s agent since 2012 when he founded Klutch Sports Group. And since then, Paul has only risen through the ranks to become one of the most powerful sports agents.
As Westbrook and his agent parted ways, Paul had his say on the situation with a cryptic tweet. “It’s a cold game!” he wrote.
It’s a cold game !
— Rich Paul (@RichPaul4) July 16, 2022
LeBron James reacted to his agent’s tweet as well, agreeing that it is indeed a cold game.
Facts!!! 🥶 a$$ game brother! 🤦🏾♂️ https://t.co/3x1DOKfxKw
— LeBron James (@KingJames) July 16, 2022
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Agents usually seldom discuss their interactions with previous clients in open light. It’s usually negative for their business. However, Foucher didn’t hold back.
WATCH THIS STORY: Wife Ayesha Gets Emotional As Stephen Curry’s 4-Year-Old Son Canon Celebrates His Birthday: Definitely Ready For College
It’s not sure who Foucher’s comments will assist. This, though, may give the Lakers a newfound feeling of urgency. Foucher believes Westbrook should stay with the Lakers. This forced the player to cut ways with his longstanding agent, indicating that he wants out. Perhaps this conveys a message to the front office that retaining him is a bad idea.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
The Westbrook-Lakers saga is in high gear, so the following several weeks should be lively. What lies ahead for Russell Westbrook and the Los Angeles Lakers? Please share your thoughts in the comments section below.