Russell Westbrook Assists Talen Horton-Tucker by Vehemently Defending the Lakers’ Inconsistent Youngster

Russell Westbrook is known for his competitive fire, and he isn’t afraid to drop the hammer when it comes down to winning. Recently, the Thunder point guard was asked about Talen Horton-Tucker’s game in a text message.

Russell Westbrook is not a fan of the Lakers’ young players. He defended Talen Horton-Tucker on Twitter by vigorously defending him and his inconsistent play. Read more in detail here: lakers roster.

Russell Westbrook Assists Talen Horton-Tucker by Vehemently Defending the Lakers' Inconsistent Youngster

Talen Horton-Tucker has been a bright light for the Los Angeles Lakers as their 2021-22 season has gone from terrible to worse. Talen Horton-Tucker, in particular, was a shining light.

For the bulk of his third NBA season, the 21-year-old has struggled with consistency. It’s something the Lakers should be worried about, given that THT is paid more than all but three players. Russell Westbrook, on the other hand, seems unconcerned, and has come to his teammate’s rescue.

Talen Horton-Tucker hasn’t been able to match his early-season success.

The Lakers have no doubts about Horton-abilities. Tucker’s Despite just making five regular-season starts in his first two seasons, LA signed the former Iowa State Cyclone to a three-year, $30.8 million contract. He is now the fourth-highest paid player on the team, after Russell Westbrook, LeBron James, and Anthony Davis.

Following his return from thumb surgery, Horton-Tucker repaid LA’s trust in him right away. On November 14, the 21-year-old made his season debut against the San Antonio Spurs, scoring 17 points in 27 minutes. The following night, against the Chicago Bulls, the Chicago native set a career best with 28 points and four 3-pointers. He then backed up his outstanding performance against the reigning champion Milwaukee Bucks with a 25-point, 12-rebound effort.

THT had done enough to secure a starting berth in the starting lineup even after James returned from his abdominal ailment on November 19 against the Boston Celtics. However, in that defeat to Boston, he went 0-for-6, the first of multiple dismal outings he’d have over the following several weeks.

Horton-Tucker only scored double digits once between November 19 and December 3, when he scored 12 against the lowly Detroit Pistons. The teenager has had a more encouraging month, highlighted by a 19-point performance against the Orlando Magic on December 12. However, he is still prone to have a bad game now and again, most recently shooting 1-of-13 from the field in 31 minutes against the Phoenix Suns.

Russell Westbrook is confident in his abilities. Horton-Tucker will make a difference.

THT’s difficulties, according to Russell Westbrook: “He’ll be just fine. He has a lot of potential…. I’m not concerned about THT in the least.”

December 24, 2021 — Ryan Ward (@RyanWardLA)

Westbrook has been as divisive as they come in his debut season with the Purple and Gold. If there’s one silver lining to Russ’ up-and-down season, it’s that he’s pulled focus away from his underperforming teammates, like Horton-Tucker.

Following last week’s humiliating 138-110 defeat to the San Antonio Spurs, Westbrook endorsed THT. In 38 minutes of play, the teenage guard scored 13 points on 5-of-13 shooting.

Westbrook told reporters via Lakers Nation, “He’s going to be OK.” “He’s a fantastic talent; he’ll figure it out and reclaim his breath.” I’m not concerned about THT since he’ll be alright.”

Horton-Tucker improved marginally in his following game, scoring 14 points on 5-of-11 shooting against the Brooklyn Nets on Christmas Day. Though he hasn’t quite reached the level of output he showed in his first few days on the job.

Talen Horton-Tucker remains an important element of the Los Angeles Lakers’ current and future success.

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It’s no secret that the Lakers are an elderly team. THT, however, is one of the few players under the age of 21 who can help the Lakers both now and in the future.

Horton-Tucker was re-signed for this season and will be an important part of the rotation. And he has been for the most part, as shown by his inclusion on LA’s most successful five-man lineup in terms of point differential. But, with Davis sidelined for many weeks due to a knee strain, the onus is on the 6-foot-4 guard to step up and fill in for some of the scoring that AD has been missing.

In terms of the future, Horton-Tucker is the only player assured to remain on the books after this season, alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Westbrook is unlikely to opt out of his $47 million player option, but the Lakers may decide to trade him following a dismal season. So, barring any deals, THT’s future in Hollywood is locked in for the years 2022 and beyond.

There’s no denying that the skill there. Westbrook notices it, as do the Lakers. THT, on the other hand, will need to establish consistency in order to break through and assist LA recover from a dismal season.

Basketball Reference provided all statistics, while Spotrac provided contract data.

RELATED: To get Jerami Grant and bolster LeBron James’ supporting cast, the Lakers may need to change their minds about Talen Horton-Tucker.

Watch This Video-

Russell Westbrook defended Talen Horton-Tucker after the Lakers’ youngster had a lackluster game. Russell said that he would have done the same thing if he were in his position. Reference: lakers nation.

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