Former All-Star guard Russell Westbrook echoed a continuing theme Monday afternoon as the Lakers went through exit interviews, saying his play and that of the team was disappointing.
Westbrook played in 78 of the Lakers’ 82 games and was at his best toward the end of the season, which ended Sunday with an overtime victory in Denver. Coach Frank Vogel was fired earlier in the day.
“It obviously wasn’t a successful season by any means,” Westbrook said. “My play in general, not my best season.”
Earlier Monday, Lakers executive and general manager Rob Pelinka said there was plenty of blame to spread around for the front office, coaches and players.
“We had a very disappointing season. That will not be the case next year,” he said.
When asked about his relationship with Vogel, who at times during the season benched Westbrook for the fourth quarter of games, he replied: “I’m not sure what his issue was with me.