Things have been better in LA with the Los Angeles Lakers. This season, despite all the hype around them, they have failed to deliver. One of their key signings, Russell Westbrook has struggled to find his groove and isn’t on his best every night. However, in an interview, one of the things he said did not sit well with a former NBA champion.
Kendrick Perkins addressed Westbrook’s comments about his LA run not being all about basketball and ripped into the superstar for saying so.
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In the off-season, things were looking quiet for the most part. However, when draft night hit, things turned over. News broke out that Brodie has signed with his hometown team and the Lakers became an automatic powerhouse. However, that hasn’t materialized into a run yet as they hover around .500. But for Brodie, his approach isn’t all basketball.
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Kendrick Perkins gives Russell Westbrook the bitter truth
Over the years, Brodie has been all around the league. However, now that he is in his hometown of Los Angeles, the 9-time All-Star gets to be close to family. Hence, when speaking to the Athletic, Westbrook spoke about how life is bigger than just basketball for him. However, Perkins believes that is not the right approach to take.
He said: “After the game he is like, it is more than basketball, there is more than life than just basketball. I’m like no bro. You came to LA for one reason and one reason only.”
With the way things have turned out, Perkins does hold a great point. The Lakers made a trade for Brodie to come back stronger than the last season. However, right now, that isn’t the case. And much of it could fall onto players’ attitudes while approaching the season. If Russ isn’t fully focused on winning a championship, that is going to show in his performances.
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Likewise, Brodie has struggled to find his footing this season as he is putting up points, rebounds, and assists per game. The Lakers need him to be fully dedicated to making things work on the court. Family is definitely a high priority for any player in the league. However, when it is time to work, that is the only thing that Russell Westbrook needs to focus on.
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What do you make of Kendrick Perkins’ take? Let us know in the comments below.