Since the summer of 2022, the Lakers and their fans have had a love-hate relationship with Russell Westbrook. But after his storybook season turnaround, the rumors of his trade have quieted and the boos have become cheers.

Westbrook, who ended last season as the scapegoat on a 33-49 Los Angeles Lakers team, has come alive in his second year with the team, boosting the squad to the tune of averaging 14.6 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 7.7 assists as a reserve.

Lakers head coach Darvin Ham has praised the veteran for his willingness to switch roles and become a sixth man, leading for an impressive surge as a candidate for this year's Sixth Man of the Year Award. “It says he's selfless,” said Coach Ham. “He is willing to sacrifice. He's willing to add a new element and a new chamber to our team in terms of how balanced we are and how balanced of an attack we can have.”

With his resurgent play, Westbrook is redefining his role in the league. He is now tied for the record of most triple-doubles off the bench in league history. Meanwhile, his skill set and IQ have provided an asset to the team, albeit one the Lakers front office admittedly failed to recognize a year ago.

The story of Russell Westbrook, who has played fifteen seasons with four different teams, is one of redemption, proving himself as an unexpected MVP candidate this season.