Chauncey Billups was assured close friend Ty Lue would bring Russ out of the Lakers chaos

Russell Westbrook's stint with the Lakers was the most challenging chapter of Mr. Triple-Double's career. An LA native himself, Brodie was ecstatic about donning the purple and gold. However, there were apprehensions about the veteran guard fitting on the roster.

Though Russ struggled to find his footing, the nine-time All-Star's turnovers and missed field goals became a regular for trollers. What seemed to be a witch hunt against Westbrook made it worse when Lakers Nation began booing him.

At some point, the constant mockery and public berating would get to Brodie, who looked defeated and disconnected. Fortunately, the two-time scoring champion found a home just before the 2022-23 deadline, signing with cross-town rivals Clippers. Apart from his well-wishers, Pistons legend Chauncey Billups felt great relief for the OKC superstar.

Chauncey Billups was confident about Russ getting his respect on the Clippers

Chauncey shared a close bond with T-Lue, having known him since their AAU days. Therefore, the 2004 NBA champion had no doubts about Westbrook finding his old self back on the Clips.

"I just think Russ needed someone to hug him," said the Pistons Finals MVP .

Taking to the Clippers in no time, Brodie looked rejuvenated, showing glimpses of the Triple-Double machine. The 6-foot-3 guard would come in handy towards the final leg of the 2022-23 season, with Kawhi-PG dealing with injuries.

Though the Clippers were handed a first-round exit in the 2023 playoffs, Russ was lauded for his efforts. Filling up the stat sheet with 23.6 PPG, 7.6 RPG, 7.4 APG, 1.2 SPG, and 1.4 BPG, the former OKC superstar was back in action.

Westbrook's marriage with the Clippers didn't last long

Russ made all the sacrifices possible, be it a limited role or coming off the bench after James Harden's arrival during the 2023-24 season. Sadly, Paul George's not re-signing with the team this off-season caused the front office to reshuffle the roster.

Finding it hard to fit Brodie, they had no choice but to trade him. Ultimately, the OKC Thunder MVP would sign with the Nuggets, looking to contend for a championship.

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