The Los Angeles Lakers have been arguably the NBA's most disappointing team relative to expectations entering the season. They had title hopes coming into the campaign but have fallen short of that lofty goal, as they currently sit at 28-35 for ninth place in the Western Conference.

One of the more frustrating players on the Lakers has been guard Russell Westbrook, who was acquired via trade in the offseason. Westbrook has often been booed by fans, which isn't a surprising reaction considering the passion of the Lakers faithful. But sometimes, fans take it too far, which is exactly what happened with Westbrook and his family. The former MVP received some “death wishes” from fans, and his wife Nina sounded off on the matter with an emotional message on Twitter.

That is something that should never happen in the sports world. But unfortunately, it appears to be happening to Westbrook and his family amid the Lakers' difficult season.

Westbrook's wife went on to speak about how she supports her husband through all the negativity he receives and that she hopes that the players who come after him don't have to deal with what he has had to endure.

Westbrook recently said he's not bothered by the criticisms too much because he goes home to a beautiful family.

No one should ever have to deal with threats to themselves or their family because they are not performing well enough. What Westbrook and his family are dealing with—and have dealt with—is bigger than basketball.

It should never happen.