Hell would probably be the perfect word, to sum up Russell Westbrook’s first season with the Los Angeles Lakers. Coming into his hometown, his reception came with booes from the Laker Nation. Moreover, frustrations set in with him not being able to perform to his usual standards. This affected his relationship with his fellow teammates. However, the nine-time All-Star’s story has turned around, and fellow Lakers have grown close to Brodie. According to NBA Insider, Dave McMenamin, several teammates showed their support for the former MVP with a heartwarming gesture.
After a nightmare start to the season, the fans had seemingly given up on Westbrook this season. However, his one move to trust Darwin Ham has made him among the best bench players in the entire NBA today. Brodie has accepted his role as the Lakers sixth man. In addition, he is slowly becoming the frontrunner to win the NBA’S Sixth Man of The Year.
As a commander of the second unit for the Purple and Gold, the two-time scoring champion has managed to form a close bond with his teammates. McMenamin highlighted their relationship by bringing out a special gesture from certain teammates of Westbrook.
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Lakers show their love for Russell Westbrook
According to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, Westbrook has done a stellar job of successfully bringing teammates together. While thriving as the Sixth Man, it seems he is also a great teammate. Russell Westbrook has impacted younger guys such as Juan Toscano-Anderson, Thomas Bryant, and Wenyen Gabriel. And they seem to be riding with the 2017 MVP.
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McMenamin noted how several Laker stars wear Westbrook’s brand, “honor the gift’ clothing to games. Notably, Toscano-Anderson who is in his first season spent over a thousand dollars at the store buying for himself and his girlfriend. Speaking on Westbrook’s role as a leader, the NBA Insider said, “He has a true connection to this year’s group, and through that connection, it’s allowed him to have his influence on what this team looks like, the culture of the team.”
Last season Westbrook arguably had his worst year. He seemed to have lost his joy for the game. In addition, the constant scrutiny from fans might have made things even harder. Regardless of the emotions attached to his return, Brodie showed up like a true professional. He has even connected with former bitter rival, Patrick Beverley to build harmony among the team.
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It’s evident that Westbrook has made a deep impact on the young Lakers. Leading the charge as the Sixth Man, he has probably helped several of his teammates build confidence in their own game. While the Purple and Gold are still in a hole, they have shown signs of competing. With Anthony Davis’ return looming, we might just see a turnaround from Westbrook & Co.