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‘Willing to Listen’: Lakers’ Russell Westbrook Accepts that He Plans to Stay Receptive Under LeBron James’ Leadership

Published 08/10/2021, 11:30 PM EDT

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USA Today via Reuters

The critics are calling the present-day Lakers an old team with players standing at the cusp of retirement. However, the Lakers are paying no heed to such comments as they’re confident in their abilities. Although it is still doubtful that they can finish the WC as a #1 or #2 seed, defeating this unit in a series of seven games would be a herculean task for any unit. 

A major reason for such confidence in this newly formed LA squad is the inclusion of Russell Westbrook. He is a do-it-all candidate who can take care of everything expected out of an All-Star point guard. So how confident is Russ ahead of this fresh start?

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Russell Westbrook discussed LeBron James and his role

Recently, Dwight Howard gave an interview where he discussed his roles as a veteran with the Lakers. His words reflected how the table talks with these joiners have certainly made them aware of their responsibilities. On the same lines, Russ shared his vision, too.

The 32-YO started by accepting that he’d be receptive under the leadership of LeBron James. He expressed, “I always want to stay true to who I am. But with that, making sure I’m willing to listen and be all ears. I’m coming to an unbelievable organization, team and players I’m able to learn from… Bron is one of the best players to play this game. His ability to kind of do everything on the floor allows me to be able to just figure out.”

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The world has already seen the chemistry between Russ and Bron when they brought a gold medal to Team USA in the 2012 London Olympics. Moreover, their All-Star game camaraderie further showcased how they’re unstoppable as a scoring duo.

Russ then shed light on his roles and detailed, “My job is to make his game easy for him. I’ll find ways to do that throughout the game… ball-handling and all that… there’s many ways you can impact the game when you have the ball in your hands. I’ve been able to do that for many years and I’m gonna figure it out.”

Why Did Russell Westbrook Choose #0 as His Lakers Jersey Number?

How exactly will Russ help the Lakers?

In the NBA Playoffs 2021, the Brooklyn Nets (EC) and the Phoenix Suns (WC) showed some extraordinary ball distribution. Now, with the Lakers owning the right to LeBron & Russ, two of the greatest playmakers, one can expect crazy assists and perplexed defenders.

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Moreover, the Beastbrook is tough and durable in the sense that he seldom gets injured. So during those matches where the star duo in Bron and Anthony Davis might sit out, Russ can lead from the front. Also, his experience of playing alongside the likes of Kevin Durant & James Harden would help the strategy side during film sessions.

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And even if none of that works, one can still expect a triple-double every other night coming from the former Wizard. Do you think all this would be enough for them to lift the title? Help us know in the comments section below.

Watch this story – Russell Westbrook, Kawhi Leonard, and Other NBA Players Who Signed with Jordan Brand

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Written by:

Sourabh Singh

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Sourabh Singh is an NBA sports analyst for EssentiallySports, who has been working with the site since May 2020. Prior to this, he functioned as Managing Editor at WittyFeed, followed by a stint at Decathlon. The Sports Management graduate leads an active lifestyle, veering to the mountains for off-trail adventures.
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