The Los Angeles Lakers are pondering how they will use point guard Russell Westbrook, who is aiming to start the season with the team after the board’s inability to trade him because of his expensive salary.
According to The Athletic, the Lakers are seriously considering using Westbrook off the bench in the 2022-23 season, causing him to lose his spot in the starting lineup under coach Darvin Ham, who is forced to return the team to greatness after a disappointing year.
Russell Westbrook coming off the bench is being “strongly considered” by the Lakers, per @sam_amick and @jovanbuha
HC Darvin Ham is ready to make “whatever difficult rotation decisions” lie ahead for the team pic.twitter.com/ZgfOs2bTXJ
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) September 16, 2022
Westbrook will earn $47 million next season after averaging 18.5 points per game in his debut season with the organization. This number of drives per game was his lowest since his third NBA season.
The signings of Dennis Schroder and Patrick Beverley by the Lakers called into question the role of Westbrook, who has already said that he is open to being traded if an offer arrives that satisfies both parties.
“Westbrook is one of the best players I’ve ever seen and I want to give him the chance to play under my system. He’s not going to be treated any differently than the other players. He has to work hard and he’s sure to get opportunities,” Ham said upon arriving at the Lakers.
