Can recent bench productivity of Russell Westbrook spark Lakers revival?

Can recent bench productivity of Russell Westbrook spark Lakers revival?

It’s safe to say that the Lakers miss Anthony Davis. Sitting below .500 halfway through the season, it would take a miracle for them to turn it around, right? Turns out, that miracle is Sixth Man of the Year candidate, Russell Westbrook. And yes, you read that correctly. Not MVP, not even DPOY-no, that is Sixth Man of the Year.

Coming into this season, it was questionable whether Westbrook was even going to be on the roster come tipoff. After averaging his worst point total since his second year in the league last season, many thought that Westbrook’s time in Los Angeles was coming to a close. It seemed even more likely after the slow start to this season; after only starting three games, the former MVP was delegated to the bench.

Now, however, Westbrook seems to be adjusting well to his new role, given his recent hot streak.

The Numbers

Westbrook’s season numbers won’t immediately jump out at you, at least compared to what we would expect from the man who averaged a triple-double like it was nothing. He’s averaging 15.7 points on 42.1% field goal percentage, to go alongside 6.6 rebounds and 7.8 assists. Still great numbers for a bench role, but not uber impressive.

In his last few games though, he has shown flashes of his past self. Okay, maybe not MVP Russ, but at least a younger Westbrook.

Over his last five appearances, Westbrook is averaging 24 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 8.4 assists. These are very, very good numbers for someone playing behind Patrick Beverley and Dennis Schröder in the rotation. While it is a small sample size compared to the 82-game season, it is showing some progress.

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Rest of Season Outlook

What once seemed impossible now seems to be working. When Westbrook became a Laker, the idea was thrown around that a bench role would be possible. Russ rejected this, obviously. But now that it’s actually happening, it might just work out better for the Lakers as a whole.

His recent hot streak aside, the Lakers have struggled this season. Sitting at 20-24 following their win over the Rockets, even a play-in spot seems far away.

Westbrook needs to continue his present form because the Lakers’ season truly depends on it. Los Angeles needs to start winning ball games. They need to capitalize on this hot streak. Oh, and LeBron James isn’t getting any younger.

The Lakers just need to win. They need to do it soon, too. Otherwise, they’ll miss out on this hot streak from James and Westbrook.

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