The Russell Westbrook experience in Los Angeles has not gone according to plan. Yes, Russ led the Lakers in almost every major statistical category, but that’s sort of besides the point. The 2021-22 Lakers were a disaster any way you look at it.
Some reporting suggests the relationship between Westbrook and the Lakers front office is not particularly strong. His teammate LeBron James, meanwhile, stated the team’s failures ultimately came down to poor injury luck. You can draw your own conclusions.
Regardless, Westbrook has a big decision to make. He holds a $47 million player option next season. Odds are he’ll opt in – how could he not?
From there, though, what happens next? The Lakers will undoubtedly try to trade Russ, but easier said than done. It’s just as likely Westbrook takes a buyout or stays put in LA. There are a number of ways this shakes out; where should Russell Westbrook play next season?