In processing the end of his season, Russell Westbrook took exception to reports about his discomfort during the 2023-24 season.
Early in the year, the Los Angeles Clippers executed what became the biggest trade of the season in acquiring James Harden from the Philadelphia 76ers, and were recently eliminated in the first round of the playoffs by the Mavericks on Friday.
Westbrook averaged 11.1 points, 5.0 rebounds and 4.5 assists while largely manning a sixth man role for the Clippers, and The Athletic reported that him taking on the role was “far more challenging” than the team outlined.
The Athletic noted that they were told by league sources Westbrook “had to be convinced by (team president Lawrence Frank) to take on the sixth-man role.”
The publication also noted that Westbrook “often mentioned how he felt he could play more, and he did not speak to reporters at any point after the regular season ended.”
Westbrook responded to the reports on a lengthy Instagram story.
Westbrook took exception to the reports that suggesting the “process was far more challenging behind the scenes than team officials had made it appear publicly,” which The Athletic noted.
“I am often the topic of conversation by so many ‘sources’ and sports news outlets,” he wrote. “I felt inclined to share my actual thoughts and words following this season. Understand that anything you read about what I’ve said or haven’t said has likely been fabricated. I’ve never had any trouble sharing my thoughts or ideas on anything, and I choose to keep my thoughts to myself in most cases.
“I’d like to share some of my actual thoughts to Clipper nation and all of my fans, he continued. “It’s a difficult time for a lot of people due to certain expectations that have been placed on them. Therefore, it’s understandable that there is pressure to plant stories or point the finger for what many would classify as a disappointing end to our season.
“I for one enjoyed my year, and worked hard to bring the energy, and provide a spark for our team with each opportunity I was given,” he acknowledged. “I felt that I was and remain more than willing to take on new roles, and make certain sacrifices in hope that it would make our team better. I hoped for a different outcome, but I also enjoyed being in the trenches with my teammates this year, who have all been supportive of me throughout the season.”