Russell Westbrook's turnover issues have been a big flaw of his game since he joined the LA Lakers via a blockbuster five-team trade in the 2021 offseason. But the triple-double king found a way to reel it in in his last four outings before the game against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden.
In the 106-100 loss to the Knicks, it seemed like Westbrook was slowly returning to his ways, registering 6 turnovers. The reporters were quick to address the issue in Russ' post-game interview, but he was not having any of it.
When asked about his turnovers, he replied:
"It's funny you mention turnovers, I haven't heard you ask me about that in like five games (laughs)... You guys are funny, man."
You can understand his frustration where a player is put under scrutiny after one perceived poor outing. Calling his 31 points, 13 rebounds, and 10 assists a bad game will be harsh in my opinion.
Russ was clearly the best player on the Lakers team in that matchup, which is why hearing about turnover could have set him off. Nonetheless, he maintained a calm demeanor and simply called out the reporter.
Another slow start to the game cost the Lakers a victory, and Westbrook pointed it out. He said they did not play hard enough to start the game, but when they picked up the pace it, made a significant difference.
The Lakers were without LeBron James following his one-game suspension for his altercation with Isaiah Stewart. They are on a 9-10 run and are ranked 9th in the Western Conference standings.
The Lakers will make one more stop on their five-game road trip to face the Indiana Pacers before returning to Staples Center to host the Sacramento Kings. A win will go a long way in helping head coach Frank Vogel's case as fans have started calling for his dismissal.
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