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‘With Me Every Time’: Russell Westbrook Remembers Kobe Bryant After Being Unveiled as a Laker

The Lakers have produced great players in the NBA. In addition, they have also been a destination for great players to come and win a championship. A prime example of this would be Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O.Neal. Well, now they have added yet another great player into their roster.

They finally unveiled Russell Westbrook as a Laker to the world. They acquired him in a blockbuster trade involving the Washington Wizards. Naturally, he was asked about Kobe Bryant. Russell Westbrook responded to the question and said this about Kobe.

SAN ANTONIO – MAY 7: (FILE PHOTO) Kobe Bryant #8 of the Los Angeles Lakers bites his jersey in Game two of the Western Conference Semifinals against the San Antonio Spurs during the 2003 NBA Playoffs at SBC Center on May 7, 2003 in San Antonio, Texas. Bryant was released on bail by the Eagle County Sheriff’s office in Colorado July 6, 2003 after posting a $25,000 bond on a felony count of sexual assault. (Photo by: Brian Bahr/Getty Images)

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Kobe Bryant will always be with Russell Westbrook

When asked about the ‘Mamba’, Russ said it is still crazy to think what happened to him. Moreover, he also that he will have Bryant in his mind in every game he plays as a Laker. He said: “It’s just crazy to think about. That’ll be with me every time I put that Laker jersey on.”

Russell Westbrook on Kobe Bryant: “It’s just crazy to think about. That’ll be with me every time I put that Laker jersey on.”

— Ryan Ward (@RyanWardLA) August 10, 2021

Bryant tragically passed away in a helicopter crash in January 2020. His daughter, Giannis Bryant was also one of the victims of the crash. The world was in shock hearing about the loss of Kobe Bryant. For Brodie, they had great battles in the NBA and also played together in the Olympics.

Moreover, Kobe said that Westbrook is a player who reminds him of himself while playing. There is no doubt that Russ will have him with him while playing for Bryant’s organisation. Donning the purple and gold is a huge step for Russ. This is his 4th franchise in as many years, and he will now hope to win a championship with them.

 

‘Mr.Triple Double’ will look to strengthen his legacy as a basketball great. he has been put in a situation to win, but can he do it?

Boston, Massachusettes–June 17, 2008 Lakers Kobe Bryant walks off the court as the Celtics celebrate the championship in Game 6 of the NBA Finals at the TD Banknorth Center Tuesday. (Photo by Wally Skalij/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

Can Westbrook win with the Lakers?

Many people have criticised Westbrook for being a selfish player, and his ability of not being able to play with stars. However, that is only a false narrative. Paul George, Durant and James Harden enjoyed their best scoring game while they played with Russ.

Mar 29, 2021; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Washington Wizards guard Russell Westbrook (4) reacts after a three point basket against the Indiana Pacers during the fourth quarter at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports

Now, he has been alongside LeBron and Anthony Davis. And there is no doubt that he will help them as well. He has averaged a tripe double in 5 of the last 6 seasons. Last year, he put up 22 points, 11 rebounds and 11 assists. So, not only can he score, but he is also a very capable playmaker.

However, the most important factor is his competitiveness. Russ is one of the most competitive players in the league. He plays hard every possession. His hustle is what the Lakers need to push that one step further and add a 18th banner to the Staples Center.

WASHINGTON, DC – MARCH 13:
Washington Wizards guard Russell Westbrook (4) reacts after hitting a three pointer during the first quarter of the game between the Washington Wizards and the Milwaukee Bucks on Saturday, March 13, 2021. (Photo by Toni L. Sandys/The Washington Post via Getty Images)

Do you think Westbrook will win with the Lakers? Let us know in the comments below.

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