Darvin Ham Sends Russell Westbrook a Message After ESPN’s Lakers Rumors
In 2023, the Los Angeles Lakers completed a three-team trade that sent Russell Westbrook to Minnesota and Utah. While the move itself drew attention, it was ESPN’s Dave McMenamin’s metaphor that truly went viral when he described the trade as “removing a vampire from the locker room.”
The remark framed Westbrook as an energy drain within a high-profile roster. His family and friends strongly disputed the claim, prompting ESPN to later take down the post. Despite the deletion, the phrase left a lasting impression and sparked ongoing debate among fans and analysts.
Recently, former Lakers head coach Darvin Ham revisited the topic on The Hoop Genius Podcast, seeking to clarify the narrative around Westbrook’s tenure in Los Angeles. Ham called the earlier criticism a product of today’s social media environment, where quick and provocative headlines can overshadow true context.
“I love him, what he stands for. And hopefully, one day we’ll be able to sit down again and just really chop it up man to man.”
Ham noted that his decision to have Westbrook come off the bench aimed to restore team balance, not to target the player personally. His remarks added a measure of perspective to the Lakers’ internal dynamics during that period.
Author’s Summary
Darvin Ham countered lingering ESPN-driven rumors by reaffirming his respect for Russell Westbrook and clarifying the motives behind past coaching decisions.
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