The Los Angeles Lakers in 2021/22 was the NBA's biggest disappointment this season. After trading to Westbrook and signing a number of veterans, they were once seen as the big favourites for the title. After nearly three months of playing, the Purple and Gold Legion is still struggling to find their own rhythm. They are now a 19-19 team that is 8th in the Western Conference standings. They are likely to play in the playoffs for the second consecutive season.
Westbrook has come under a lot of criticism for his poor performances this season, and the 37-year-old LeBron James is trying to lead the team forward, which has earned him a lot of praise, but also more criticism of Westbrook.
Recently, NBA commentator Shannon Sharpe once again blamed the talented point guard. Sharp said James played like he was 25 years old, but still couldn't move to give Wei Shao. He also said Durant couldn't do it at his peak, and James had a harder time doing it at 37.
"LeBron is in the same state as he was when he was 25, but he still can't move Westbrook. KD couldn't lead Westbrook at his peak, do we expect James to lead Westbrook in the 19th season of his career? ”
Sharp has always been harsh on Westbrook. The 2017 regular season MVP has struggled to find what it's like to play for the Lakers, but fans have asked the team to trade him. He's only been to the Finals once, and it looks like he won't have another one.
Westbrook is no longer considered a superstar, and his trading value in the league is decreasing day by day. The Lakers are now in a big predicament, and there is no indication that Westbrook will stay with the Lakers for a long time.