Former Lakers player defends Russell Westbrook after statements against LeBron and company

NBA

The legacy of Russell Westbrook in Los Angeles Lakers He did not leave titles, but he did generate one of the biggest controversies in the 2022-23 NBA season. While some supported the former league MVP for professionally agreeing to come off the bench, others did not back him and approved of his departure as they were. LeBron James y Anthony Davis.

A former Lakers player spoke about it. Westbrook was traded by the Lakers in the middle of NBA 2023 after averaging 17.4 points per game, 7.2 assists and 6.9 rebounds in 130 games. Russell ended up with the Los Angeles Clippers after reaching a deal with the Utah Jazz. Passing through the team led by LeBron still gives something to talk about.

The Clippers were eliminated in the first round of los NBA Playoffs 2023 and once they asked Russell Westbrook On the feelings of the end of the season, the base sent with a message against the Los Angeles Lakers and LeBron James.

“Man, it honestly started off hard. I am very thankful and blessed to end up in a situation where I am allowed to be myself, to be brought in with open arms, allowed to go outside, play and compete.. I’m super grateful just for that. I’m happy and blessed to be able to finish another season.” Westbrook said in a press conference on April 25, 2023 and the defense of the former Lakers player was not going to be long in coming.

Former Lakers player defends Westbrook after statements against LeBron

J.R. Smith played only 16 games in Los Angeles Lakers and was part of the title in the NBA 2020. This former player of the Californian team touched on a delicate subject such as Russell Westbrook and his departure from the purple and gold franchise to defend Russ after the star guard’s statements that targeted LeBron James and company.

“Honestly speaking, I understand what he was going through. Given the passion he has for the game and then seeing the people around you who are supposed to be the closest to you: your teammates and the organization have their backs, and then the fanbase. And he’s a kid from Los Angeles, he’s from Los Angeles. So to have that kind of experience with your local team and your hometown, it’s really hard. Fortunately, I am happy to see him go to the Clippers and have the success that he has had, ”JR Smith told the Bally Sports channel (Sports).