Kevin Garnett sends prayers and advice to struggling Russell Westbrook
Former NBA superstar Kevin Garnett recently sent prayers to Russell Westbrook. In light of the 9x All-Star's recent performances and media backlash, Garnett offered some positive reconciliation.
Russell Westbrook has borne the brunt of the media for his recent performances. The 34-year-old followed up one of the worst games of his career with a relatively decent performance. However, in relation to the massive contract he earns, he wasn't up to the mark in the slightest.
Westbrook has spent most of his tenure in a Lakers uniform as a scapegoat for the team's poor performance. Considering his reputation as an all-time great, Westbrook appears to be a shadow of himself at the moment.
The most recent loss against the Portland Trail Blazers saw him take an ill-timed shot, which resulted in a game-winning opportunity for the Blazers. Considering this was also the third consecutive loss for the Lakers, Russ faced immense media backlash for the play.
In light of the star's recent upheavals, former NBA player Kevin Garnett stepped in to offer some encouragement.
Kevin Garnett addressed the very obvious lack of passion in Westbrook's demeanor in a conversation with Showtime Basketball. In this regard, the former NBA player sent up some prayers for the LA Lakers superstar. He said:
"I'ma pray for him, man. Russ, man, hold your head, man. I know how this — can be, man. It’s a long year. Whatever you gotta do, man, find your love, and find your passions.”
.@KevinGarnett5KG's advice to Westbrook 🗣 "Reset yourself and remember why you do this."
#NBA #Lakers https://t.co/CTHfqjF3cL
Kevin Garnett has been particularly critical of player performances. Given that he has already set out a challenge for Anthony Davis this season, it isn't out of the ordinary for him to take note of other players as well.
As a player known for his passionate displays of emotion and aggression on the court, Westbrook currently seems unrecognizable. Given the environment in LA, it is very evident that the fans want Westbrook out.
Whether a trade will materialize soon is unknown. However, the circumstances are certainly not conducive to helping him improve.
Russell Westbrook in the middle of trade rumors again
It's almost a trend for the LA Lakers to find themselves featured in trade rumors this season. While the offseason was packed with rumors linking the Lakers to several teams, the Purple and Gold failed to see a trade materialize.
In this regard, the regular-season appears to be no different as Russell Westbrook finds himself on the trade block once again.
Westbrook and the Lakers have repeatedly been linked to the Indiana Pacers for Myles Turner and Buddy Hield. In light of the trade demands, the Lakers have been hesitant to pull the trigger on any move.
However, given the current circumstances, the Purple and Gold appear more willing to deal out their remaining chips to facilitate the move.
Additionally, the Lakers have also shown particular interest in assets such as Terry Rozier and Josh Richardson. Considering the scoring punch both could offer, the Lakers are obviously looking to bolster their poor offensive rotation.
Hornets' Terry Rozier emerged as a trade target for the Lakers in the offseason and their interest in him remains high, per @ShamsCharania. https://t.co/6VWOy1LFYR
The discomforting aspect of trade rumors coming out of LA happens to be the timing. With each rumor surfacing after a loss, the situation only adds to the existing pressure on Russell Westbrook. As mentioned earlier, this isn't a conducive environment for improvement.
The Lakers' current plan sees the roster remain as constructed till Thanksgiving at least. However, with recent events in mind, the team may opt to head in a different direction.