USA Today via Reuters
Nov 4, 2022; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Russell Westbrook (0) dribbles the ball against Utah Jazz guard Mike Conley (11) in the first half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
USA Today via Reuters
Nov 4, 2022; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Russell Westbrook (0) dribbles the ball against Utah Jazz guard Mike Conley (11) in the first half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
The basketball world thought they would never see Russell Westbrook back at his best in a LA jersey. However, the Los Angeles Lakers seem to have finally turned it all around. Coming off the bench and accepting a new look, Brodie has been on fire since his return from injury. Showing shades of his former MVP self, he was hot against the Utah Jazz tonight. And the Lakers crowd gave him a much-deserved chant.
Westbrook’s story with the Lakers is associated with his horrid start. Last season, the former MVP had arguably his worst season in the longest time. Becoming the laughing stock of the league, the Laker nation had enough of the nine-time All-Star. And the new season didn’t seem to change the way NBA fans looked at Westbrook.
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However, ever since coming off the bench, the Los Angeles Lakers guard looks to be enjoying the game once again. He had his best game of the season tonight and MVP chants were heard all around Los Angeles.
Russell Westbrook looks like he is back to his MVP form
Prime Russell Westbrook was a different breed. A super freak of nature, the point guard was a walking highlight machine. Explosive dunks and flashy passes are all a part of his repertoire. However, his move to his hometown damaged the iconic legacy. But tonight, Brodie turned back the clock. Rocking the baby all over the Utah Jazz, he had the crowd erupting.
Vintage Russell Westbrook was on show. Bullying the guards and making plays no one saw coming, the Crypto.com Arena was left speechless. On a night LeBron James struggled, Westbrook became the hope of the Laker nation. Likewise, the crowds gave him fitting chants. MVP roars echoed around the arena as the 33-year-old made both his free throws.
Are those… MVP chants for Russell Westbrook? pic.twitter.com/3ImMMPJLaU
— Action Network (@ActionNetworkHQ) November 5, 2022
This is the fastest rise from the ashes ever 😂🔥 https://t.co/OwpSEjcLPh
— Beythoven (@BeyUncanny) November 5, 2022
HE COOKING https://t.co/3evtMFWqGS
— nets szn (2-6) (@wheretheclitat) November 5, 2022
MVP MVP MVP MVP, Russell Westbrook! pic.twitter.com/rUvSLE0Jm6
— Beastbrook (@Beastbr00k0) November 5, 2022
Russell Westbrook 6th man of the year calling it now ‼️
— t r i p p y (@tripp_so1o) November 5, 2022
Put some respect on @russwest44 name
— Filippo (@Pipp003) November 5, 2022
Darvin Ham’s decision to make bring him off the bench became the turning point for Westbrook. He has since taken up the role of a leader of the purple and gold’s second unit. Playing the majority of his time on the ball, Brodie truly seems to be back. Scoring 26 points to go with 6 assists, Russell Westbrook shot 60% from three, a rare accomplishment for him.
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In the last three games, as a commander, Russell Westbrook has averaged 19 points, 7.7 assists, and 6.0 rebounds per game. He has played ferocious defense all through the season. Now with his offense picking up at the same pace, the Lakers have looked like a different team.
Do you think Westbrook can win Sixth Man of the Year this season? Let us know your views in the comments below.
Written by
Edited by
Veer Badani