Patrick Beverley is now in Lakers 'Big 3': Skip Bayless
When the Los Angeles Lakers acquired Patrick Beverley this offseason, fans had questions. The Lakers Nation was curious about how the vocal floor leader would fit with the big 3 of LeBron James, Anthony Davis and Russell Westbrook. Although Beverley is, without a doubt, one of the best defensive guards in the league, his storied rivalry with Russell Westbrook had fans concerned.
Quickly, the two squashed any existing beef in pursuit of their first NBA championship. Westbrook even made a surprise appearance at Beverley's introductory press conference, showing fans the two men were ready to put any lingering animosity behind them. The move left a big impression on Beverley, who admitted that the two men have incredibly similar personalities.
Even though two men appear eager to share the floor together this season, Skip Bayless believes Beverley has actually forced Westbrook out of the Lakers Big 3. The long time NBA analyst and generational LeBron James hater spoke on Undisputed with Skip & Shannon to discuss the situation in LA. He said:
"I showed you the video that night Russell sitting in street clothes, in the middle of the bench, and the new Big 3 is sitting at the end of the bench all together. One, two, three, LeBron, AD, Pat Bev. They became the new 'big 3' or a three some. I can't really include Pat Bev in the Big 3, but he's in the starting lineup. He's becoming a voice, becoming a vocal leader."
Although rumors have continued to swirl regarding Westbrook's future with the team, head coach Darvin Ham has maintained that he wants to play Westbrook and Beverley alongside one another this season. The way he sees things, with the energy the two men bring on both ends of the floor, other teams will be in for a long night.
Patrick Beverley's emergence as a leader: What can be expected from the Lakers this season?
Over the course of his career, Beverley has become an incredibly confident floor general. After starting his career overseas and making a splash in the NBA, Beverley really began to earn a reputation as a leader during his time with the Los Angeles Clippers. With the team's underdog mentality, Patrick Beverley fit right in, cementing his place as a force to be reckoned with.
Prior to joining the Lakers this offseason, Patrick Beverley helped lead the Minnesota Timberwolves to the NBA playoffs for the first time since the 2017-18 season. Even though the team ultimately lost in the first round, their win in the play-in tournament showed fans that, no matter where Beverley plays, he will make a major impact on the floor.
This season, Patrick Beverley will look to lead the Los Angeles Lakers on the defensive end of the floor. For a team that was often left looking at one another after missed rotations on defense last season, Beverley's presence is much needed. With the NBA season tipping off tonight, fans will be anxiously tuning in to see the impact the EuroCup MVP has on the team.