Despite combining for 44 points, LeBron James and Anthony Davis were unable to lead the Los Angeles Lakers to victory against the Minnesota Timberwolves amid the controversy surrounding Russell Westbrook.
Westbrook, coming off one of the worst seasons of his 13-year NBA career, was mired in controversy after refusing to join Patrick Beverley’s group along with James, Davis and Lonnie Walker.
The Lakers were down five with 10 minutes remaining in the third quarter when the meeting took place, but the 2017 MVP seemed less interested in what his teammates had to say.
Russell Westbrook ignoring team meeting 👀😬 pic.twitter.com/3zrpBplZua
— The Laker files (@LakerFiles) October 13, 2022
On a night to forget for Westbrook, shooting 1/3 from the floor on 3/6 free throws in 25 minutes, this was yet another reality check for the Lakers who have seriously considered trading the 33-year-old ahead of schedule. February 9 redemption limit. next year.
Potential destinations for the former Oklahoma City Thunder star have been discussed, such as a move that would see Westbrook head to the Indiana Pacers in a package centered on Myles Turner, Buddy Hield and first-round picks.
Russ and McDaniels 😅 pic.twitter.com/XpGYoISQYv
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) October 13, 2022
Westbrook is +15000 to win the MVP award for the second time in NBA betting, however those odds may be lowered if a trade occurs before the start of the regular season on October 18.
Under the new management of former Milwaukee Bucks assistant Darvin Ham, Westbrook is likely to play a different role in a lineup alongside Kendrick Nunn on the perimeter behind James, Davis and Damian Jones if he remains in Los Angeles.
The 17-time NBA champions begin their search for an 18th ring in just over two weeks by visiting the reigning champions Golden State Warriors at Oracle Arena.
