A statistic that proves how Russell Westbrook was integral to the Los Angeles Lakers’ first win of the season has surfaced.
Russell Westbrook has been under a lot of scrutiny and criticism ever since he joined the Los Angeles Lakers in 2021. The former MVP was seen as a signing who would transform the Lakers back into a title winning side, but it would not be an exaggeration to say that Russ’ Lakers spell has not gone to plan.
After an injury riddled first season that saw him not live up to expectations at all, he was halfway through the door after the Lakers roped in Patrick Beverley – Russ’ long term rival in the NBA – as his rival as a Lakers point guard. However, no deal could be reached and he started the season with the Lakers.
The second season arguably started worse than the first, as even though he did not have any injury trouble – Russ was one of the most criticized players as the Lakers got off to a disastrous 0-5 start. However, even amidst the relentless criticism from fans and pundits alike, Westbrook seems to have turned the narrative around.
The Los Angeles Lakers turned it around and racked up their first win of the season against the Denver Nuggets on Sunday night. The Lakers finally opened their account for the season with a 121-110 win against the Nuggets, and though it was a resilient collective effort – a stat shows how Westbrook’s impact stands out.
What is the stat that proves Westbrook’s impact on the win?
Following the Lakers’ win, a stat that proves Westbrook’s impact on the win has surfaced on social media.
While Westbrook had a game where he racked up 18 points, 8 points and 8 rebounds – his impact on the game was much more than just his individual numbers, as proven by the stat. The stat in discussion shows how the Lakers got on with and without Westbrook on the floor, and the difference is day and night.
While the Lakers lost 16 points without Westbrook on the floor, they won 18 points with him on it – proving how important Russ was as the Lakers finally broke their duck for the season.
More News:
• Skip Bayless rips into Russell Westbrook after poor performance against the Timberwolves
• LeBron James says Russell Westbrook was “great” all game after 0-5 start for Lakers
