Lakers News: How LA’s Game Plan Mocked Russell Westbrook’s Terrible Jump Shooting
Wednesday night gave us the classic Battle of LA and, depending on who you ask, another entry into the famous rivalry between the Lakers and Clippers. It seems as though a key player is always injured and with Paul George absent from the match, that tradition carried on. However, most of the other key players on both sides were present and the stage was set with plenty of storylines.
Of course everybody was looking forward to seeing Russell Westbrook take the floor against the purple and gold for the first time since the trade deadline. Even though he denied any extra feelings of motivation before tip-off, it was clear that Brodie had a chip on his shoulder for this one. Straight out of the gate, he scored or assisted on the Clippers' first eight points.
Even though he didn't see much playing time in the second half per the coaching staff's choice, he needed just 20 minutes to notch 14 points on 50 percent from the field and the three-point line.
Most notably, his efficiency from downtown stood out to everyone. In his two seasons with the Lakers, Westbrook connected on just 29 percent of his three's despite taking three of them every match.
it was very clear that LeBron James and every other Laker remembered his struggles with them and were giving him all the space in the world to take those shots Wednesday night. Anthony Davis was very open about the fact that they had already planned to do so.
"Our game plan was for Russ to shoot the ball... and he made them," said Davis."
Despite the 125-118 loss, LA is still very much in the playoff/play-in tournament. Seeding is starting to look clearer as the season winds down but these next few games will certainly be very important.
The Lakers have been a whole new team since trading Westbrook, but it's still good to see him thriving in his role with the Clippers. Even though it was a wild ride when he was on our side, he still can contribute to a team and he showcased that on Wednesday. It is okay to be happy for one of our former guys finding a new home.
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