Russell Westbrook, Washington Wizards. (Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports)
Russell Westbrook was pure class in thanking Washington Wizards fans over Instagram.
They may have only been together for one season, but it was all love between point guard Russell Westbrook and the Washington Wizards fanbase.
Westbrook was dealt to the Los Angeles Lakers on NBA Draft night in a blockbuster deal. He is a native of Southern California and played his college ball at traditional power UCLA. With this about to be his fourth team in as many years, Westbrook stands his best shot at an NBA title, as he would be joining a Lakers team that features two other stars in Anthony Davis and LeBron James.
Here is what Westbrook posted on Instagram Thursday night to the Wizards fanbase after being traded to his hometown Lakers.
Russell Westbrook thanks Washington Wizards fans in heartfelt Instagram post
During his one year in the nation’s capital, Westbrook averaged a triple-double with 22.2 points, 11.7 assists and 11.5 rebounds per game. Washington clawed its way into the NBA Playoffs as the No. 8 seed before bowing out to the top-seeded Philadelphia 76ers in the first round. Though he may not have been an All-Star, Westbrook’s presence was felt on the Washington hardwood.
Now entering his 14th NBA season out of UCLA, no player’s reputation may benefit more after winning a championship than Westbrook. Everybody knows how insanely hard he plays. If he can be the second or third-best player on the 2021-22 Lakers, they may have what it takes to win their second NBA Finals in three seasons. Westbrook will finally get the respect he has deserved.
It may have only been for a season, but Westbrook clearly enjoyed his time with the Wizards.