Former MVP Russell Westbrook and his time with the Los Angeles Lakers have been a greatly debated topic over the past year or so. Many criticized his bad form while some reports also bashed his attitude in the locker room. Things got out of hand when an ESPN report referred to him as a ‘vampire’ in the locker room. Westbrook’s wife and numerous other NBA stars quickly came to Russ’ defense and bashed the report. 

Recently, Russ’ former Lakers teammate spoke out and criticized the media for making Russell Westbrook the scapegoat. Looney Walker IV, who joined the Lakers from the San Antonio Spurs, put out a statement for his former teammate and admired his work rate. Fans on Twitter have lauded Walker for speaking out while also giving their thoughts on the Westbrook situation.

Fans react to Lakers star’s statement on Russell Westbrook

2016-17 season MVP Russell Westbrook joined the Los Angeles Lakers from the Washington Wizards prior to the 2021-22 NBA season. While many expected the Lakers to do wonders with the addition of Westbrook, the reality was quite different.

After a controversial time representing the purple and gold, Westbrook was finally traded to the Utah Jazz on trade deadline day. A few days later, it was confirmed that Westbrook will be joining the Los Angeles Clippers after a buyout agreement with the Jazz.

Following his departure, former teammate Looney Walker had some nice words for the 9-times All-Star. He said, “He’s one of the hardest-working dudes I’ve been around. And he’s probably one of the best teammates I’ve ever had. That’s something that I didn’t even expect because of how much the media has influenced and kinda showed what he was.”

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While some fans took his comments positively, some bashed Walker for making a very generic statement. Here’s what the NBA fans had to say.

Some fans also predicted the Clippers to win the NBA title this year with the addition of Russ. They currently sit fourth in the Western Conference and are looking comfortable for a playoff spot. Seeing the Clippers lift the NBA title is very much a possibility.

When will Westbrook make his Clippers debut?

The league resumes action on February 23rd after the All-Star break. Westbrook can make his debut as soon as Friday when the Clippers take on the Sacramento Kings. However, the team might give him some more time to make himself familiar with his surroundings.

The more probable date for Westbrook’s debut is the 27th of February when the Clippers take on the Nuggets. Both Kawhi Leonard and Paul George are currently fit which gives the Clippers fans all the more reasons to be excited as they could see Russ playing with Leonard and George very soon.

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What are your thoughts on the Russell Westbrook trade? Let us know in the comments down below.