2. Damage To Reputation Is Piling Up

There is no denying that Russell Westbrook has put together an incredible NBA career. In today’s day in age, we live in a short memory, revisionist history culture.

For example, what Westbrook is failing to do now is used as justification for Kevin Durant leaving years ago. Who is to say whether that’s right or wrong, but regardless, those are the kinds of narratives he will be furthering by continuing to play for the Lakers.

While caring about what other people think doesn’t seem to be an issue for Westbrook, at some point, taking action to avoid the potential reputational impact may be best.

There is nothing that impacts narratives quite of the magnitude as LeBron James. When playing alongside him, you’re going to be the target of a lot of criticism if things don’t end up working out. Westbrook is the face of that right now and it’s only going to get worse.

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Choosing to reach a buyout agreement with the Lakers would be a great way for Westbrook to show that he wants to pursue a better fitting situation. He’d be taking the chance on his ability to bounce back by doing so.