Russell Westbrook, Washington Wizards. (Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports)
Skip Bayless crushes the Los Angeles Lakers after trading for Russell Westbrook.
While most people believe the Los Angeles Lakers got better after trading for Washington Wizards point guard Russell Westbrook, FS1’s Skip Bayless was especially critical of the move over Twitter shortly after it happened on Thursday night.
The Undisputed co-host made it very blunt by saying LeBron James’ Lakers just got worse after the deal. Though trading for Westbrook did hurt the Lakers’ depth, as dealing for any superstar would, Los Angeles got the best player in the deal and therefore, won the trade. Westbrook joins a star-studded Lakers starting lineup that prominently features James and big man Anthony Davis.
The Lakers may not win a title with this big three, but Bayless bashing the Lakers is no surprise.
Skip Bayless rips the Los Angeles Lakers after trading for Russell Westbrook
There were several reasons the Lakers came up short last season. One could argue such a quick turnaround after winning it all in the Orlando bubble ultimately did them in. However, the Lakers did not get consistently strong play in the backcourt, especially at the point guard position. Dennis Schröder had his moments, but once again proved he is a sixth man and not a starter at the point.
Admittedly, trading for Westbrook gives the Lakers very little room for error this season. His high energy may be exactly what this older team needs that is built around James. However, he has never been a consistently strong performer in the NBA Playoffs. If the Lakers hope to win their second NBA Finals in three seasons, they are going to have to rely on Westbrook in crunch time.
Bayless may be critical of the move now, but there is a chance he could be right in the long run.