Inside the Los Angeles Lakers organization, some members are reportedly attempting to share the blame for the controversial trade that brought Russell Westbrook to the team in 2021. During a recent YouTube Q&A session, Jovan Buha of The Athletic highlighted the complexities surrounding the accountability for this decision.
Buha suggested that while there have been acknowledgments of accountability regarding the Westbrook trade, there has also been a significant amount of blame-shifting among the various parties involved. He noted that both the high-profile players and the front office played crucial roles in the decision, and ultimately, ownership approved the trade.
The Lakers had previously enjoyed success, winning the championship in 2020, but the next season ended in disappointment with a first-round playoff exit. This led to the bold move to assemble a star trio featuring LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Westbrook. However, despite Westbrook’s impressive accolades, including being a nine-time All-Star and an NBA MVP, his performance in Los Angeles didn’t meet expectations. He averaged 17.4 points, 7.2 assists, and 6.9 rebounds over two seasons, contributing to a lackluster record of 33-49 in his only full season with the team.
After Westbrook’s role diminished, the Lakers traded him mid-season, and the team subsequently made a run to the Western Conference Finals. Buha speculated that the success of the championship win and the deep playoff run has likely spared general manager Rob Pelinka from harsher consequences following the Westbrook trade. Pelinka’s strong relationship with owner Jeanie Buss may also contribute to his continued position with the team.
As it stands, LeBron and Davis remain the pillars of the Lakers, supported by an emerging cast that includes players such as D’Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, and rookie Dalton Knecht. With a promising start to the current season at 10-5, placing them fourth in the Western Conference, the Lakers appear to be on the upswing.
This ongoing evolution of the Lakers showcases their resilience and ability to bounce back from past mistakes, contributing to a hopeful outlook for the rest of the season. With a roster that balances star power and young talent, the franchise seems poised to make a significant impact as the season progresses.