"Letting Russ be Russ will destroy your chances of success": Fans react after Russell Westbrook blames former teams for his lack of success
Basketball fans responded sharply after superstar Russell Westbrook appeared to blame his former teams for his lack of success. Speaking to the media following the Denver Nuggets' practice session on Saturday, Westbrook reflected on his stints with four different franchises since departing the OKC Thunder in 2019.
"To be honest, (my skill-set) was unique, they just didn’t put me in a position to be unique. I was in a position where I was playing not my position," said Westbrook.
The nine-time All-Star also discussed his role with the Nuggets under coach Mike Malone. The Hall-of-Fame-bound Westbrook expressed confidence in Malone, stating his trust in the coach to position him for success.
"Being able to be here and coach Malone allowing me to be able to use my speed, use my transition skills to make other guys better. It makes the game for everyone else around me and that's what I love to do best," the former league MVP said.
Fans responded to Westbrook's recent comments, with some criticizing the athletic point guard for his statements.
"He needs to let go of this Victim Mentality. The Lakers / Vogel / LeBron let him run the show, and he went on to average almost 6 turnovers, shot 29% from 3, and blew at least 10-12 games with horrible 4th QTR decisions. Letting Russ be Russ will destroy your chances of success," a fan said.
"All of Denver will hate this dude by Thanksgiving," wrote another fan.
"Come on man at some point take some accountability. He been terrible shooting and doesn’t finish well around the rim. If i gave Denver and he’s on the floor im leaving wide open every time. If he beats u making shots so be it. But this is reality," said another X user.
One of the fans sounded alarm bells for the Nuggets after listening to Westbrook's latest statement.
"This is a bad sign for nuggets fans lmaoo. Bro still hasn’t humbled himself enough to see that he was one of the main problems."
Some fans expressed optimism about Westbrook's potential for success with the Nuggets.
"As a lifelong Nuggets fan they just need to let Russ be Russ for 35 minutes a game. Put the ball in his hands and let him go to work. Joker will be deadly off ball!" a fan said.
"As a nuggets fan we need to let Russ be Russ," wrote another X user.
Mike Malone on Russell Westbrook
During the Denver Nuggets media day, coach Mike Malone highlighted the impact Russell Westbrook has had on the team since joining in the offseason. Malone praised Westbrook's leadership and competitive spirit, emphasizing his positive influence on the other players.
"Russ was in the gym yesterday and there was just a different energy," Malone said. "Can't explain it. But it's just his voice, his leadership, his intensity, his competitive spirit."
Westbrook is nearing the twilight of his illustrious NBA career. The two-time scoring champion continues to chase the elusive NBA title. Teaming up with the league's best player, Nikola Jokic, Westbrook will have another opportunity to secure his first championship ring next season.