With all the hubbub on Russell Westbrook's rumored departure this offseason, it seemed like a foregone conclusion to some that he had played his last game in a Los Angeles Lakers uniform.
But a change of scenery for the former MVP may apparently not be imminent just yet – if Phil Jackson has any say on the matter, that is.
According to a report from The Athletic's Sam Amick, Phil Jackson is still pulling some major weight in the Lakers front office. While a coaching return doesn't seem to be in the cards, owner Jeanie Buss is said to still take his advice with great importance when it comes to her decision-making process.
Jackson's viewpoint is one being considered as the Lakers search for their replacement for Frank Vogel. That influence reportedly may extend to what the team ultimately does with Russell Westbrook as well.
Via The Athletic:
And how’s this for a tidbit to tie this thread up: Jackson is known to have been a fan of Westbrook’s throughout his career. Sources say Jackson has no interest in taking on this coaching job (or any other) himself — let’s just stop that rumor right here — but his view of Westbrook is relevant. As we’ve established, Jackson’s voice matters again.
There are a handful of factors at play when it comes to what the Lakers do with Russell Westbrook. Finding a suitable trade partner and what both he and LeBron James want to do both play a huge role in that. But make no mistake, Phil Jackson could potentially be a swing vote in a huge decision looming in LA.
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