A new report came out recently suggesting that the Lakers are willing to keep Russell Westbrook despite a disappointing season and a widespread belief that the team will do whatever it takes to part ways with the former NBA MVP.
According to sports analyst Skip Bayless, this is the Lakers owner Jeanie Buss making a statement to LeBron James, who wanted Russ on his team.
“This is Jeanie Buss digging in and saying to LeBron, ‘You wanted him? You made your bed, now lie in it,'” Bayless said on UNDISPUTED as he pointed out that buying out Westbrook’s $47 million contract is just not an option.
This past season Westbrook averaged 18.5 points, 7.4 rebounds and 7.1 assists in 34.3 minutes per game for the purple and gold. He has a player option that he can use this summer. If it is used, the Lakers would have to pay him $47 million next season.
