Russell Westbrook Trade Rumors Get Final Nail In The Coffin

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Los Angeles Lakers v Detroit Pistons
A detail is pictured of the back of the jersey of Russell Westbrook #0 of the Los Angeles Lakers as he looks on against the Detroit Pistons at Little Caesars Arena on December 11, 2022 in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Nic Antaya/Getty Images)
Russell Westbrook is finding his rhythm in Los Angeles.

Russell Westbrook is one of the best point guards to ever play the game of basketball. However, the last two years have stained his reputation. While playing for the Lakers, Westbrook has not been at his best. Although, many believe it is simply the situation he has been thrust into.

There is certainly some proof to back this up. For example, Russ has become infinitely better since coming off the bench. As the leader of the Lakers' second unit, Russ can now be the ball-dominant player he was always meant to be. It has led to improved stats, as well as improved results.

Russell Westbrook #0 of the Los Angeles Lakers waits for the play during a pause in play during the second half of their NBA game against the Toronto Raptors at Scotiabank Arena on December 7, 2022 in Toronto, Canada. (Photo by Cole Burston/Getty Images)

Russell Westbrook Trade Talks

Consequently, trade talks surrounding Russ have died down considerably. Just a few months ago, it really seemed like the Lakers wanted nothing more than to just get rid of Russ. Now, however, it seems like they are dead set on keeping him, no matter what.

In a report from Sam Amick of The Athletic, it was revealed that the Lakers fully intend on keeping Russ past the trade deadline. Overall, this is good news for Russ. He has ultimately changed the narrative around him, which means his free agency period will go much smoother.

Russell Westbrook #0 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts during the fourth quarter against the Philadelphia 76ers at Wells Fargo Center on December 09, 2022 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)

The Lakers and Westbrook still have a lot of work to do. As it stands, the Lakers are 12th in the Western Conference with a record of 11-16. Needless to say, they need to be a lot better if they want to make the playoffs.

Stay tuned to HNHH for more news and updates from around the basketball world.

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About The Author
Alexander Cole
Alexander Cole is the current editor-in-chief of HotNewHipHop. He started at HotNewHipHop back in 2018 where he began as a Sports and Sneakers writer. It was here where he began to hone his craft, putting his journalism degree from Concordia University in Montreal, Quebec, to good use. Since that time, he has documented some of the biggest stories in the hip-hop world. From the Kendrick Lamar and Drake beef to the disturbing allegations against Diddy, Alex has helped HotNewHipHop navigate large-scale stories as they happen. In 2021, he went to the Bahamas for the Big 3's Championship Game. It was here where he got to interview legendary figures like Ice Cube, Clyde Drexler, and Stephen Jackson. He has also interviewed other superstar athletes such as Antonio Brown, Damian Lillard, and Paul Pierce. This is in addition to conversations with social media provocateurs like Jake Paul, and younger respected artists like Kaycyy, Lil Tecca, and Jeleel!
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