Potential Rift in Lakers Camp as Russell Westbrook takes Subtle Shot at Coach Vogel: “He’s The Coach, He Makes Whatever He Feels Is the Best Decision for Our Team”

The Los Angeles Lakers came back from 21 down to win against the New York Knicks in overtime. LeBron James returned to the lineup after missing five games and he had a triple-double to show. Anthony Davis had another monster game, but Russell Westbrook had another off night. He was benched by Frank Vogel during the overtime period.

Russ was ineffective from the floor again, as he had 5 points on 1-10 shooting. He missed a lot of easy shots and wasn’t very effective in distributing the ball as well. In fact, he missed two free throws in the final minute of the game, which led to overtime. Vogel took Russ out of the lineup in overtime, and the Lakers came away with the victory.

This isn’t the first time Russ has been benched in late-game situations. In the game against the Indiana Pacers last month, Russ was again benched as the Lakers tried to come back. Vogel said he put out the lineup which he felt was best at the time. Russ didn’t have a reaction to that at that time, but after being benched once again, Russ had something to share.

“He’s the coach,” says Russell Westbrook

Russ was asked what he thought about him being benched. Russ said there was no communication between him and the coach, either today or last time. He added, “But he’s the coach, he makes whatever he feels is the best decision for our team… We won the game, that’s the most important part.” 

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This might indicate a potential rift in the Lakers camp as the lack of communication between the coach and his star point guard. Russ is not having the greatest of seasons and he has struggled with his shooting all season long. His finishing at the rim, which used to be so deadly, has now seemed to disappear. He is also leading the league in turnovers and he has given the ball up in crucial situations.

The Lakers might have won this game, but they still have a lot of issues to be sorted out. But with a healthy Anthony Davis and LeBron James, they will have to confidence to take on anyone in the West. Russ will just have to find a way to adjust and contribute as we approach the All-star break.

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