Despite combining for 44 points, LeBron James and Anthony Davis were unable to lead the Los Angeles Lakers to a victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves due to a dispute over Russell Westbrook.
Coming off one of the poorest seasons of his 13-year NBA career, Westbrook has been embroiled in controversy after refusing to join Patrick Beverley’s lineup with James, Davis and Lonnie Walker.
At the time of the hug, the Lakers were down five with ten minutes left in the third quarter, but the 2017 MVP seemed less interested in what his teammates were saying.
Russell Westbrook hugs the team 👀😬 pic.twitter.com/3zrpBplZua
– The Laker Files (@LakerFiles) October 13, 2022
With a night to forget for Westbrook, shooting 1/3 from the floor and 3/6 free throws in 25 minutes, it was yet another reality check for the Chargers who are serious about trading the 33-year-old before the Feb. 9 trade deadline. next year.
Potential destinations for the former Oklahoma City Thunder star have been discussed, such as Westbrook’s move to the Indiana Pacers in a package centered around Miles Turner, Buddy Hield and first-round picks.
Russ and McDaniel 😅 pic.twitter.com/XpGYoISQYv
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) October 13, 2022
Westbrook is +15,000 to win the MVP award for the second time in NBA betting, but his odds could drop if the trade happens before the regular season starts on Oct. 18.
Under the new guidance from former Milwaukee Bucks assistant Darwin Hamm, Westbrook could play a different role in the lineup with Kendrick Nunn in the backcourt than James, Davis and Damian Jones, who stayed in LA.
The 17-time NBA champions visit the defending champion Golden State Warriors at Oracle Arena in just over two weeks in their quest for their 18th ring.
