10:00 p.m.: Lakers guard Russell Westbrook will seek new representation, as his longtime agent Thad Futcher told ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski that the pair parted ways due to “irreconcilable differences.” According to Wojnarowski, Foucher has represented Westbrook since he turned pro and was the No. 4 pick in the 2008 draft. Foucher said the two have a difference of opinion on their approach going forward. “Now, with the possibility of a fourth trade in four years, the market is telling the Lakers that they need to add additional value with Russell in any trade scenario. And even then, such a trade might require Russell to immediately move on from the new team via buyout. “I think this type of trade only serves to devalue Russell and his best option is to stay with the Lakers, embrace the starting role and support that (coach) Darwin Hamm has publicly offered. Russell is a Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer and will prove it again before he retires. “Unfortunately, there are irreconcilable differences as to his best course and we are no longer working together. I wish Russell and his family the best,” Foucher said as part of a larger statement. Westbrook has been the subject of frequent trade rumors in his rocky tenure with the Lakers, and based on Foucher’s statement, it appears the former MVP may be ready for a new team, but apparently Foucher felt it was best to stay in LA for to try. and rebuild its value. The 33-year-old appeared in 78 games (34.3 MPG) with the Lakers in 2021/22, averaging 18.5 PPG, 7.4 RPG and 7.1 APG on .444/.298/.667 shooting. He was heavily scrutinized by the media and fans for his shot selection, poor defense and lack of accountability, blaming former coach Frank Vogel for some of his issues.
