Ramona Shelburne Revealed The Los Angeles Lakers Still See Russell Westbrook As A Starter: "He's A Former MVP, He's Given That Respect."

Russell Westbrook might have reached a point where he is the most unnecessarily disrespected star in the league. Being on the Los Angeles Lakers always brings an extra spotlight on players, but the hate for Westbrook has been through the roof. And while his performances for the Lakers aren't exactly what fans have come to expect from him, it's safe to say that he gets a lot more respect within the organization than he does outside it. 

Jeanie Buss praising Russ is an excellent example, while new coach Darvin Ham has also spoken about him. LeBron James was around to show his support for Westbrook as well, earlier in the offseason. But the signing of Dennis Schroder has set some tongues wagging around the league, with many questioning if this acquisition means that Westbrook will have to settle for a role on the bench. 

This isn't ideal for a superstar of Westbrook's stature. His legacy in the NBA is incredible despite recent struggles, and he still has a lot to offer, even as a starter. But there is no way to know if the Lakers will decide to continue with him in the starting 5 till the season begins. There are some reports along those lines, though.

Ramona Shelburne Says The Lakers See Russell Westbrook As A Starter

The Lakers now have several guards, all vying for limited spots. Patrick Beverley has been treated like a big new addition, and as such will expect to start. And Dennis Schroder distinguished himself with stellar performances at EuroBasket, which could see him have a case to play as well. But discussing the signing of Schroder on ESPN, NBA insider Ramona Shelburne said that Westbrook's position isn't in danger just yet.

(starts at 1:16 minutes):

"He (Schroder) didn't come out saying I wanna start and that he's promised starting, because he hasn't been this time. And I think that really started this whole experience off on the wrong foot last time. Dennis Schroder was joining an NBA championship team, they traded for him, and the first thing out of his mouth was, 'I wanna start and they told me I'm gonna start.'

"In this situation, they've told him, 'You're going to have a significant role on this team... From what I understand now, they still see Russell Westbrook as a starter. He's a former MVP, he's given that respect. Everyone's gonna compete for jobs."

A situation with a bunch of players trying to prove their quality sounds ideal on paper, but it will be tough for the Lakers coaches to handle all the egos. Ultimately, the best fit should play, and after a poor season in 2021-22, the Lakers faithful likely don't have any patience for more shenanigans next season.