Lakers star Russell Westbrook left 'surprised' by late-game benching during loss to Pacers

Los Angeles Lakers point guard Russell Westbrook didn't speak with reporters following his late-game benching on Wednesday night against the Indiana Pacers. As the Lakers now prepare for a Friday tilt with the Orlando Magic, the nine-time All-Star has responded to the decision.

"Surprised, yes. I was disappointed I didn't go back in, but I'm more disappointed that we lost the damn game," Westbrook said, per ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski on the benching. "I want to be able to be on the floor to help my teammates and be able to help our team win in games like that -- but that was a decision that was made."

Los Angeles is 22-23 and eighth in the Western Conference standings. Westbrook finished Wednesday's loss against the Pacers 5-for-17 from the field.

The first-year Laker is averaging 18.5 points, 8.0 rebounds, 7.8 assists and 34.9 minutes per game in 45 contests, while posting a .433/.304/.668 shooting line.

"Ultimately, you have to be OK when s--- doesn't go well and I'm OK," Westbrook told ESPN. "I've done everything that's been asked of me here, and I'll continue to do so and ride this out as long as we can toward our ultimate goal -- and that's to win a championship."