Lakers guard Russell Westbrook said his family no longer wants to attend his games because of harassment directed at him.
In response to his wife's tweets, Westbrook explained why he would prefer they stay away from Lakers games.
“It affects them even going to games,” Westbrook said. “Like, I don’t even want to bring my kids to the game because I don’t want them to hear people calling their dad nicknames and other names for no reason because he’s playing the game that he loves. And it’s gotten so bad where my family don’t even want to go to home games, to any game … and it’s just super unfortunate, man. And it’s super upsetting to me. I’m at a point where I’m going to continue to address it. It’s just unfortunate.”
The Lakers acquired Westbrook during this past offseason, and he was expected to be an essential part of their championship run.
Due to chemistry issues involving Westbrook's presence in the lineup, that vision has crumbled.
Even though Westbrook's numbers have slipped from his peak, he remains a valuable asset for the Lakers. He has averaged 18.1 points, 7.6 rebounds, 7.2 assists, and 1.0 steal per game in 63 games.
Westbrook has been the target of frustration from Lakers fans. It might be one of the reasons why he and the team are reportedly looking for a new home for him this upcoming offseason.
Westbrook is probably well aware of how fans react when things don't go according to plan given his years of playing basketball. It is clear, however, that such reactions go beyond simple booing, which explains his anger.
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