"Let Russ Be Russ?" Can Russell Westbrook Play His Way and Still Help The Lakers?

Russell Westbrook is nothing if not a polarizing player. As such, given how badly he played on Christmas against the Nets, perhaps the most disappointing of L.A.'s five straight losses, and the team's poor start overall, and it's no surprise to see him at the center of some negative talk. How negative, one asks? Well, two Monday articles floated the idea of trading him for John Wall, despite the two being fairly similar players (they've already been traded for each other!), and that Houston's point guard is more injury-prone. This swap feels unlikely, but that it's even a topic du jour speaks to shrinking confidence in Westbrook's fit with the Lakers. Frankly, it's still an open question as to how best to even utilize The Brodie. Westbrook shared thoughts after Monday's practice (and fans should definitely listen), but the crux of his comments boil down to him thinking he's the best expert on how he should play. In other words, Let Russ decide what it means to "let Russ be Russ." To put it mildly, there's a lot to unpack. Plus, Andy offers a trend that could explain in part the Lakers' recent offensive struggles... and Russ is in the middle of it. Hosts: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky Segment 1: "Westbrook for Wall" chatter, and Russ' post-practice comments. Segment 2: More on Russ' comments, and whether he's capable, much less willing, of adjusting his game. Segment 3: A bad stat trend that traces back to Russ, plus.. more Westbrook talk!!! Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Built Bar Built Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15” and you’ll get 15% off your next order. BetOnline AG There is only 1 place that has you covered and 1 place we trust. Betonline.ag! Sign up today for a free account at betonline.ag and use that promocode: LOCKEDON for your 50% welcome bonus. PrizePicks Don’t hesitate, check out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy! TrueBill Don’t fall for subscription scams. Start cancelling today at Truebill.com/LOCKEDONNBA. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices