Former NBA champion Kendrick Perkins made a bold claim that Russell Westbrook and Patrick Beverley could form one of the best defensive backcourts in the NBA.
While there might be some truth in Perk’s claim, sports analyst Stephen A. Smith does not think that the two guard can co-exist offensively as both of them are not reliable shooters. In his opinion, the Lakers should trade Russ.
“I’m not questioning the game, I’m talking about the collaboration of [Russell Westbrook] with Patrick Beverley. If Patrick Beverley was somebody that could, even though he shot like 39% from three-point range before last season for the previous four years, he’s not known as a shooter and even when he does shoot it’s spot-up,” Smith said on ESPN’s First Take.
“I think it’s a challenge of them co-existing. I think eventually you’ll have to find movement for Russell Westbrook, I don’t see this combination working for the Lakers.”
