The Lakers’ first season with Russell Westbrook was a complete failure, and doubts are therefore in order for the coming year. However, a former colossus and former Brodie teammate continues to believe in them…with some conditions, however.
33 wins for 49 losses, an abyssal background and missed playoffs: the Lakers clearly expected more from the last campaign. Above all, the performance of Russell Westbrook have been regularly singled out over the months, with the Wizards defector unable to adapt to Frank Vogel’s playing systems. Although the latter has since been sacked, few believe in a redemption of the leader in 2022-23.
Indeed, rumors of beef that he would maintain with LeBron James are clearly not reassuring, especially since the franchise is still trying to find a way to part ways with him. Nevertheless, some observers continue to hold out hope for Californians. This is particularly the case of Kendrick Perkins, NBA champion in 2008 with Boston and who thinks that Los Angeles can still surprise more than one, provided that everyone is on the same wavelength:
Kendrick Perkins believes in the Lakers 2022-23
.@KendrickPerkins believes the Lakers can be successful with Russell Westbrook next season ????
“If they can get on one accord, [If] they can put they differences aside. … absolutely they should run it back!” pic.twitter.com/PZHS1mg81f
— First Take (@FirstTake) July 19, 2022
They have to try once more with this Big Three. Darvin Ham, the new coach of the Lakers, is a former player and the coaches present in the Finals this year as well. It’s a new trend and today’s gamers seem to appreciate it. If LeBron, AD and Westbrook can get along, if they can put their differences aside, then they should give it another shot. They might put an end to criticism and rumors. At this stage, I also think that they have no choice.
For once, it is more like a simple wish than anything else. The differences between LBJ and the Brodie seem deep, and it’s hard to believe that they will mend before the resumption in the fall. Besides, it also wouldn’t solve RW’s big problems last year, namely defense and marksmanship. Ham wants to emphasize these two aspects, but his guard still has to listen to him. On the side of the fans, skepticism is in any case in order:
No accords on earth will help Russ shoot well enough and not make horrible turnovers.
— Wholesome Yunn (@Sanco_Cousteau) July 19, 2022
No deal in the world is going to help Russ shoot well and stop losing terrible shots.
Despite the galleys they went through in 2021-22, the Lakers might therefore still be close to the heights next year, according to Kendrick Perkins. However, this will require that the Big Three can get along and work together seems. Easier said than done…
