"One thing that I never will let happen is people outside of my family, people that support me take my joy" - Russell Westbrook opens up on not giving into outside noise and embracing the game
Russell Westbrook seems to have found his swagger back. The LA Lakers star recently got integrated as the 6th Man on the team, and it seems to work wonders for him.
Westbrook's time in LA has been filled with constant criticism in the former MVP's direction. Lakers fans haven't been easy on him, either. Many former players believed Westbrook lacked joy in playing the game, especially in a Laker uniform, as every move he made on and off the court got closely monitored.
Russell Westbrook was jubilant and garnered positive reactions from the crowd during the game against the Denver Nuggets. He hinted that he never paid heed to outside noise when asked if he had rediscovered his mojo.
"One thing that I never will let happen is that people outside of my family, the people that support me take my joy. I always have fun and embrace this game and embrace the gift that I've been given to be able to go out and compete," he said.
Westbrook indicated the energy was different on Sunday as the team was winning for the first time this season. The former MVP also made plays for his teammates, which he thoroughly seemed to have enjoyed.
Russell Westbrook said, "he'll continue to do whatever is needed to help the team win." 💪 https://t.co/AEUKGx14m5
Russell Westbrook's rejuvenation as a bench player could lead LA Lakers to new heights
Russell Westbrook was underwhelming at the start of the season. Westbrook struggled to play alongside LeBron James, an issue that plagued his performances last season.
The nine-time All-Star averaged 10.3 points, 6.7 rebounds and 4.3 assists through three games as a starter this year. He shot 28.9% from the field, including 8.3% from the 3-point range.
With the Lakers not getting the results, coach Darvin Ham deployed Westbrook as a 6th man over the last two games. It is proving to be a game-changing move.
Westbrook has averaged 18.0 points, 8.0 rebounds and 5.5 assists across two games off the bench. He shot 41.3% from the floor.
Left arm 💪 or right arm, we love the smiles on the court! 🙌 https://t.co/XTO0PMNSYq
Russell Westbrook took only two games to settle into his new role. He had some great moments with the fans, who gave him a standing ovation after the game. These factors will contribute to him accepting the role more with some more time under his belt as a 6th man and excelling in it.
Westbrook saw more of the ball, running the second unit. It also lifted the pressure off LeBron James and Anthony Davis, the only consistently good contributors for the Lakers so far.
The vibe between LA and Brodie was on another level tonight 💜
(via @michaelcorvoNBA) https://t.co/dqasxZ1Nsm
The LA Lakers will hope to use this momentum to string together a lengthy winning streak after dropping their first five games of the season.