LOS ANGELES — Lakers Darvin Ham, coach, says that he believes in Russell Westbrook We have “moved onto” and “an understanding” since the point guard suggested Ham’s decision in the preseason to put him on the bench could have contributed to the minor injury to his hamstring.
Ham, however, denied any suggestion that his rotation was a part of the Lakers’ preseason final loss to the Sacramento Kings This was in spite of Westbrook playing just five minutes before being forced to leave the game with a tight left hamstring.
Ham stated, “Let’s be clear with that,” before his team hosted. LA Clippers Thursday. “The Lakers and myself, as well as my staff, would not put any player or employee in harm’s path. Physically, mentally, spiritually. That is what we don’t believe in. That’s not who we are. We are not like that.
Following their 123-109 season opening loss to the Lakers, Golden State Warriors Tuesday Westbrook said he “absolutely” believes that The injury could have been caused by being on the bench against Sacramento.
“I’ve done the same thing for 14 consecutive years,” he stated, referring specifically to 1,005 of 1,022 games he has started in his career. “Honestly, I didn’t know what to do before the game. Since I was honest, I was trying find ways to stay warm and free. It’s something that I was unfamiliar with.”
Ham claimed that they had a “brief conversation” about the comments. Ham was back at Westbrook to start the Warriors’ game against them and the Clippers again.
Ham stated, “We moved forward, we reached an understanding.” “As coach of this group, we will do our best to ensure that the team is as successful and happy as possible. It’s that simple.
Ham acknowledged that he understood the importance of “respect” to the former league MVP, but he also recognized the team-centric goals Westbrook will need to achieve.
“He’s been around a while. He has been a player of high caliber for a very long period. Ham explained that he understands what it’s all about and how it is. On the other hand, it is important to be ready to do what your team requires. This is what it means to be a professional. If we want to make him successful, it must be willing to sacrifice for the good of your team and teammates.
Westbrook played 31 seconds against Golden State. He finished with 19 points, 11 rebounds on 7-for-12 shooting and 3 assists.
Ham stated that he had a “good strategy” in place for Westbrook’s future role, but said, “Based on performance, minutes may go up or down.”
Ham said that he did not have any problem with Westbrook telling reporters what he had to say after the Warriors game. LeBron JamesThe blunt assessment by “we’re no team that’s built of great shot” — even though their comments were taken to be criticisms of the coaching staff or front office.
Ham stated, “It’s an adult league.” “No matter what the intent of the insult is, things will still be said. It’s not a problem for me. I have been doing this for 26 years. I’ve played on both quiet and loud teams. I still have great respect for these guys. They have my respect. Nothing is taken personally about anything. We deal with it, and then we move on.”