The Los Angeles Lakers have had a dismal start to the 2022-23 campaign. They went 0-3 after going down against the Portland Trail Blazers on Sunday. LeBron James and Anthony Davis have had a decent start to the season and are trying to help the Lakers in their first win. However, the Lakers are struggling this season without much help from other starters such as Russell Westbrook. Westbrook’s decision to play for his hometown franchise hasn’t panned out well and Brodie reportedly wants out of LA.

According to NBA analyst Stephen A. Smith, Russell Westbrook wants to leave the Lakers. In the latest episode of ESPN’s NBA Countdown, Stephen A. Smith discussed the situation with the Lakers and Westbrook.

He said: “He knows they want him gone. From what I’m hearing, he practically wants to be gone, but they can’t just let him go for nothing.”

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However, it is hard for the Lakers to trade Russell Westbrook, as they would need a good offer for him. Westbrook’s dip in form has long been worrying the Lakers and their fans for a long time, and now, according to Smith, Russ wants out too. NBA fans reacted to the news on Twitter urging LeBron James and the Lakers to find a potential deal.

NBA Twitter reacts to report of Russell Westbrook wanting out of LA

Stephen A. Smith broke the news that Westbrook wants to leave the Lakers. Westbrook’s trade arguably hasn’t worked out very well for both the Lakers or the player.

Following are some of the reactions from NBA Twitter:

Westbrook is averaging 10.3 PPG, 6.7 RPG, and 4.3 APG this season so far. That comes with just 28.9% shooting from the field. Smith also added that the Los Angeles Lakers might start bringing Russ off the bench in the coming days. The Lakers will likely have to act fast if they want to win a championship, with LeBron James still being in top form.

LeBron James and Russell Westbrook are neighbors now

Despite Westbrook’s struggles with the Lakers, his relationship with LeBron James has always been good. With Westbrook staying with the Lakers for another season, it was always likely going to grow. Russ has reportedly purchased a new home in LA, that is close to King James’ house.

Westbrook already has a house in LA but he reportedly put it up for sale last month. However, despite buying a new house near LeBron James’ house, Westbrook’s situation with the Lakers hasn’t changed. He opted into his player option ahead of the news and he would continue for the season in LA if not traded.

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What do you think of Russell Westbrook and LeBron James being neighbors? Let us know in the comment section below.