Russell Westbrook, like all members of the Los Angeles Clippers, is transitioning into the offseason after an unceremonious exit in Game 6 at the hands of the Dallas Mavericks. He posted a kind of self-assessment on Instagram, who briefly discussed the season and attempted to clarify what he called “inventions.”
In classic style, Westbrook did not detail the “inventions” and used vague language to describe what is happening. But in the two days since the Clippers’ season ended, reports have circulated about Westbrook’s desire to stay in Los Angeles. Your comments seem to be a response to that.
I am often the topic of conversation for many sports news “sources” and outlets. I felt inclined to share my actual thoughts and words after this season. Please understand that everything you read about what I said or didn’t say was probably made up. I have never had a problem sharing my thoughts or ideas about anything and choose to keep them to myself in most cases.
I would like to share some of my real thoughts with Clipper Nation and all my fans. It is a difficult time for many people due to certain expectations that have been placed on them. So it’s understandable that there is pressure to plant storylines or point fingers at what many would classify as a disappointing end to our season.
For my part, I enjoyed my year and worked hard to bring energy and provide a spark to our team with every opportunity I was given. I felt that I was and still am more than willing to take on new roles and make certain sacrifices in the hopes of making our team better. I expected a different result, but I also enjoyed being in the trenches with my teammates this year, who have supported me all season. I hope to come back better, stronger and continue to look forward to taking on whatever role continues to put us in the best position to win next season!
So what is Westbrook really saying here? He wants to make it clear that he is not responsible for reports that say he wants to leave the Clippers and wants to return to help the team win a title next year.
Some people might find fault with the final paragraph, in which Westbrook proclaims his willingness to “take on new roles.” It definitely refers to the Clippers’ trade for James Harden at the start of the season, which forced Westbrook off the bench. Sam Amick and Law Murray of The Athletic reported that Westbrook had to be convinced by the team president Lawrence Frank to take on that role.
Despite this, it seems that Westbrook wants to return. But whether the Clippers are okay with that remains an important question.
