“It’s going to be a playoff-type of atmosphere for us”: Russell Westbrook admits the game against Pelicans is a must-win for the Lakers

Arjun Julka | 24/03/2022
"Just turning the page on whatever happened": Russell Westbrook on his recent impressive run as the Lakers push for a play-in spot

Lakers point guard Russell Westbrook talks about the game against the New Orleans Pelicans on Sunday being a must-win.

In what could be a potential play-in tournament matchup, the purple and gold visit the Pelicans on Sunday. The Lakers are currently the 9th seed in the western conference, one win above the 10th seed Pelicans.

It’s been a rough ride for the Bubble champions, who are eleven games below +500. Nonetheless, Frank Vogel and his men are hopeful of making the play-in tournament. The Lakers Nation finally have something positive to look to apart from scoring machine LeBron James.

There is positivity around Anthony Davis returning to the lineup soon, coupled with Russell Westbrook finally getting his rhythm back. Though it’s too early to come to any conclusion, the Lakers may finally be able to turn the page.

Also read: “LeBron James and the Lakers will beat the Suns in the first round”: Shaq-stradamus makes a bizarre prediction, disrespecting Chris Paul and co

Addressing the game on Sunday, Westbrook believes it’s a must-win for the Lakers.

Russell Westbrook gives his take on facing the Pelicans on the coming Sunday.

The tide seems to be turning in Westbrook’s favor after enduring endless criticism and name callings. The former MVP has averaged 22.3 PPG, 9.3 APG, 8.5 RPG over the last four games. Brodie has been highly efficient, shooting above 50% from the field and almost 48% from the 3-point line.

Westbrook’s performance also earned him praise from Lakers legend Magic Johnson, who has been critical of the former OKC superstar this season.

With less than ten games remaining in the season, the Lakers need to pull out all the stops in order to be in the playoff contention. And their upcoming battle against the Pelicans is the first litmus test to this.

“It’s going to be a playoff-type of atmosphere for us. It’s definitely a must-win, I believe for our group,” said Westbrook.

With the Lakers having five days of rest before they play their next game against the Pelicans, purple and gold fans are hopeful their team makes a statement on Sunday with their performance.

Also read: “I do want to win a championship, but if I’m too locked in, I forget about everything else”: Jimmy Butler tells us why too much of anything good is also bad

 

Post Edited By: Arjun Julka
2022 NBA play-in tournament LA Lakers LeBron James New Orleans Pelicans Russell Westbrook

About the author

Arjun Julka

Arjun Julka is a NBA author at The SportsRush. Basketball isn’t just a sport for this 26-year-old, who hails from Mumbai. He began watching the sport after stumbling upon a court in his society, helping him identify an undiscovered passion for the game of hoops. Now an ardent fan, Arjun supports Stephen Curry and the Warriors but also enjoys watching Giannis Antetokounmpo own the paint. When it comes to the GOAT debate, the TSR author feels LeBron James is yet to receive a lot of his due but cannot deny marveling at Michael Jordan’s resume.

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