Is it that Russell Westbrook will know a 6th team in four years? It’s possible since the 2017 MVP will test the transfer market this summer, and it’s a first for him!
“It’s probably the first time in my career that I will be able to make a choice as a free agent”, Westbrook said when asked about his future. “One thing I can tell you is that I love this place. I love the people, the fans who welcomed me, but also my family and close friends. I know the season is over and a lot has happened, but I’m grateful. I really like being here. »
Does that mean he’s already ready to extend? “As for making a decision, I think I will consider it when the time is right. I don’t really know the process because it’s the first time I’ve been through it. We’ll see what will happen. »
Tyronn Lue is afraid of getting stung Westbrook
Very clumsy with his awful 3 of 18 on shots in the loss to the Suns, Westbrook was still spent lavishly in this 5th round. His aggressiveness embarrassed the Suns, and his dedication won everyone over at the Clippers. Starting with his coach who wants to keep him next season.
“I hope you saw that there was still a lot under the hood” replies Tyronn Lue to the press. ” I hope he will be back with us next season. But it opened the eyes of a lot of teams who might want him, and he could really get paid off. But I want him back, that’s for sure.
If Lue talks about money, it’s because the Clippers are in the scarlet red financially, and they won’t be able to offer him much. Is Westbrook ready to stay for a modest salary? It’s not certain, especially since his 23.6 points, 7.6 rebounds, 7.4 assists, 1.4 blocks and 1.2 interceptions on average against the Suns made an impression.
Westbrook feels like home
“Usually when I ask for something, the leaders make it happen” continues Lue. “Russ was huge for us, and I hope people could see that players, in different situations, were able to play differently. »
Passed from the Lakers to the Clippers this summer, Westbrook seems to have found serenity and respect there, and that could count more than money.
“It’s a well-run franchise from first to top floor” appreciates Westbrook. “I’ve been in the league for a long time, and you realize the value of the little things, the staff, the people who take care of the players on a daily basis. This is something I really noticed from day one. Not only that, but it’s also a happy and enjoyable environment [et c’est] something you don’t see everywhere. People are happy to come to work, to be around people who love their jobs, who love what they do and who make sure we have everything we need to be successful in the field. »
Paul George makes it personal
The final word for Paul George, one of the two great absentees from this series. He had done everything for Westbrook to arrive at the Clippers, and he will do his best to keep him!
“He became the Russ he was and we all knew he still was,” concludes Paul George. “There will definitely be decisions to be made. I vouched for his presence here. I vouch for his return. I think he brings a lot to his team and it’s amazing to watch him. He’s older than me and he’s putting his physique on the line. He’s literally giving everything he has for our franchise in these playoffs. I think he’s the leader we need as a playmaker going forward and I would love for him to come back. »
Amen!
