The Los Angeles Lakers made headlines after their blockbuster trade in the off season. They acquired Russell Westbrook from the Washington Wizards to form a ‘Big 3’ of their own. However, things have not worked out as expected so far. Westbrook feels that he is doing well for the Lakers and that there are too many expectations on his back.
At the beginning of the season, it was clear that Westbrook was struggling to get things going. He had a major shooting slump and was giving up major turnovers every game. However, since then Brodie has changed things up. He has reduced the unforced turnovers and is shooting much more efficiently. Still, it hasn’t been enough for the Lakers.
Speaking to the media for the first time since their Christmas loss, Russ opened up about the expectations set on him.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
WATCH THIS STORY: NBA Stars That Shaquille O’Neal Has Taken Jabs at: Donovan Mitchell, James Harden & Others
Russell Westbrook thinks he is doing okay
While talking to ESPN, Russ spoke about his shooting slump and also his role on the Lakers. He said there were just too many directions given to him and he is done with them. Moreover, he feels that he has been good but the fans and everyone have a few rare expectations.
Westbrook said: “Honestly, I think I’ve been fine. The conversation has been heavily on how I’m playing and what I’m doing, but I think people are expecting me to have f***ing 25, 15 and 15, which, that is not normal. Everybody has to understand, like, that’s not a normal thing that people do consistently.”
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Being the third option on the Lakers, Russ has done his part so far. Putting up nearly 20 points a game to go with 7 rebounds and 8 assists is a great contribution. In addition, he has stepped up most times in the absence of either Anthony Davis or LeBron James. But his reign hitherto, has set too many expectations on him.
While the guard has his style of play, with the stars around him, he can’t average those kind of numbers. Making a triple double his signature, fans now expect Russ to put up those kind of numbers, While Brodie is nearly averaging a triple double, he is still adjusting to his role which is constantly changing with injuries around.
READ MORE : WATCH: Shaquille O’Neal Sang and Roasted Former Laker Who Got Traded for Kobe Bryant
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
He has lessened his shot attempts by a lot and is attacking the rim more often. With his turnovers, Russ is making sensible plays and not forcing anything. Hence, Russell Westbrook has kept his end of the bargain for the most part so far.
Do you think Westbrook can step his game up more? Let us know in the comments below.