[Saba Sports News] In an effort to improve their early-season performance, the Los Angeles Clippers are adjusting their lineup, with Russell Westbrook willingly taking a step back for the team’s benefit. For the upcoming game against the Houston Rockets, Westbrook will be a substitute, allowing Terance Mann to start for the first time this season, as reported by Chris Haynes of Bleacher Report.
Westbrook himself proposed this change to coach Tyronn Lue and the Clippers’ coaching staff, believing that his move to the bench could enhance the chemistry of the starting lineup and energize the bench players. Demonstrating a team-first attitude, Westbrook has expressed his willingness to do whatever is necessary for the team’s success.
The Clippers’ current record stands at 3-7, with a series of losses following their acquisition of James Harden in a trade with the Philadelphia 76ers. Coach Lue has been experimenting with various lineups, including one that initially featured Westbrook alongside Harden, Paul George, Kawhi Leonard, and Ivica Zubac.
This isn’t Westbrook’s first experience transitioning to a bench role; he underwent a similar shift with the Los Angeles Lakers last season. Unlike the previous occasion, which seemed to strain his relationship with the coaching staff, Westbrook himself has volunteered for the role change this time.
Currently averaging 14.0 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 5.7 assists over 10 games, it remains to be seen how Westbrook’s performance will evolve in this new reserve role.