The Los Angeles Lakers have focused part of their NBA offseason plan on upgrading their backcourt via free agency and trades. They have acquired Patrick Beverley and Dennis Schroder thus far, and still, have Kendrick Nunn on the roster after signing him in free agency in 2021.
That is a lot of solid depth to have in case things don’t work out again with Russell Westbrook. The Lakers took a major risk acquiring him last offseason from the Washington Wizards but things didn’t pan out as the franchise had hoped. All of the things analysts and fans were worried about heading into the season came to fruition.
Westbrook proved to be a poor fit alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis, unable to find his niche. Without dominating the ball, Westbrook failed to make a positive impact as his jump shot was inefficient and he was a sieve defensively.
New head coach Darvin Ham will certainly have his hands full when it comes to figuring out what to do with the former MVP. He has shown to be unwilling to change his style of play, so a change in role could be considered.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Russell Westbrook & Los Angeles Lakers Updates
According to Jovan Buha and Sam Amick of The Athletic, despite the additions made this offseason, there is still a plan to bring Westbrook back into the fold. However, he could be in a different role.
“Yet, while the Lakers have been hopeful the Westbrook experiment might be a success this time, sources with knowledge of the situation told The Athletic that the prospect of Westbrook coming off the bench is being strongly considered.”
Coming off the bench would provide Westbrook a chance to have the ball in his hands more as his minutes would likely be staggered with James and Davis. When they are resting, he can become the focal point of the team’s offense.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Russell Westbrook & Los Angeles Lakers Updates
Los Angeles has done as good of a job as they could to bring in players that better fit around their three All-Stars as well. Versatile, athletic players capable of knocking down 3-pointers and playing defense have been added, which should help improve Westbrook’s efficiency as well, especially if he is coming off the bench with the second unit.
