The experiment didn’t last long. After the Lakers went from the Western Conference Finals to barely squeaking into the playoffs, Russell Westbrook was traded back to Oklahoma City.

When Russell Westbrook joined the LA Lakers before the 2021-22 season, expectations were high. The hope was that Westbrook would be the ideal addition along with LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

Fast-forward to the 2022-23 season, and Westbrook was considered as a player that was on thin ice. After being moved to a bench function by coach Darwin Ham, many questioned how the veteran would react. Far, it’s been a pleasant surprise to see Westbrook looking like the gamest of old.

It’s gotten the attention of sports analyst Skip Bagless. On Undisputed, Bagless applauded Westbrook. It was a back-handed compliment though, as Bagless advised the listeners simply how bad the veteran guard was last season.

After his first year in Los Angeles, it appeared that dream was rather a headache. Westbrook saw a fast decline in his play and looked to be a shell of his previous self, averaging 18.5 points, 7.4 rebounds and 7.1 helps per game. While the numbers look great on paper, Westbrook likewise shot just 29.8% from 3-point variety.

LA Lakers guard Russell Westbrook seeks to develop off outstanding current play

Given that coming off the bench, Westbrook has actually looked to be a more positive and efficient gamer. In those video games, Westbrook is averaging 15.2 RPG, 5.8 RPG and 7.9 APG in 28.2 minutes.

The LA Lakers seemed to be on the verge of trading Russell Westbrook at the beginning of the season. After a renewal from the veteran guard, Westbrook now looks to be a possible crucial piece moving forward. If the Lakers 11-16 choose to hold onto Westbrook beyond the NBA’s trade due date in February, Time will inform.

Fast-forward to the 2022-23 season, and Westbrook was seen as a gamer that was on thin ice. The LA Lakers appeared to be on the verge of trading Russell Westbrook at the start of the season. After a resurgence from the veteran guard, Westbrook now looks to be a prospective crucial piece moving forward. Time will inform if the Lakers 11-16 choose to hold onto Westbrook beyond the NBA’s trade due date in February.

In the meantime, Russell Westbrook seems finding his groove with the LA Lakers. Time will inform if that Westbrook will be a part of the team’s prepare for the remainder of the season.

Los Angeles has actually begun to reveal some peeks of hope when it comes to a potential playoff push. They will need to turn it approximately another level, especially to climb the Western Conference standings. The Lakers are currently 11-16. It’s a promising position, specifically compared to starting at 2-10.