With the start of training camp gradually approaching, it’s starting to seem very likely that Russell Westbrook will begin the NBA season as a member of the Los Angeles Lakers.
They have tried to trade him for many months, but to no avail, as several factors have complicated their efforts.
There have been plenty of rumors about what the team may do with Westbrook should he still be on the roster when camp commences.
Some have speculated they may send him home and refuse to play him, a la John Wall, in an attempt to prevent problems on or off the court.
Another possibility discussed is the Lakers buying out his contract, something that many fans would likely accept. But the question is whether the stubborn Westbrook would accept it.
According to NBA reporter Ramona Shelburne, he will not.
Via Lakers Daily:
“‘Russell Westbrook is not a buyout guy,’ she said during a recent podcast appearance. ‘You have to agree to a buyout, and that’s not how he is wired. This is a guy who is very proud, and if you accept a buyout once in your career, you’re seen differently throughout the rest of your career.’
“Shelburne continued to explain why Westbrook wouldn’t accept a buyout.
“‘Russ is Russ because of his swagger and the way he bleeds with it, the way he plays with it,’ she said. ‘You can’t retreat from that. You can’t let go of that because that’s what made Russ, Russ — it’s his swagger. If he accepts that, then he’s no longer Russell Westbrook.'”
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In all likelihood, Los Angeles will have to make another attempt to assimilate Westbrook into the team. It will also have to find the right balance between accommodating his abilities while also getting him to do the unheralded things he has been reluctant to do, such as play defense, set screens and move without the ball.
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