NBA News: Lakers Coach Under Fire For Daring Decision To Bench Westbrook

The Los Angeles Lakers find themselves with even more adversity following the decision of head coach Frank Vogel to bench Russell Westbrook in their loss to the Indiana Pacers on Wednesday, January 19.

The loss sent the team reeling down to the eighth spot of the Western Conference standings with a 22-23 slate.

But the real story behind that game was the benching of Westbrook in the final three minutes and 52 seconds of that game wherein the Lakers bowed to the Pacers, 111-104.

According to ESPN’s David McMenamin, Vogel's decision to put Westbrook in the backseat had the backing of Lakers management.

Regardless, the move seemingly did not sit well with the 33-year-old combo guard.

Westbrook nearly left the floor after he was substituted by Malik Monk.

Kyle Goon of the Orange County Register pointed out how DeAndre Jordan had to intervene and direct him back to the bench after he was subbed out of the game by Vogel.

The 2017 NBA MVP sat on the bench with the uniform untucked and was reportedly jawing at someone.

It was not stated as to what Westbrook said and to whom they were for.

The decision to pull out Westbrook appears to be a lapse on defense. This was against Caris LeVert who the nine-time All-Star failed to check.

After the disappointing loss, Vogel responded to questions about the move. He batted that he wanted to go with the players he thought could win the game for the team, but the plan backfired.

While management is backing Vogel for his decision, it will be interesting how that move of benching Westbrook would be considered.

It was a gamble on the part of Vogel that will lead to dire consequences. Aside from another loss, it may also create new tension from within.

So while it was previously reported that Vogel’s job is safe for now, this latest debacle could raise eyebrows.

With bridges appearing to be burned, it seems the possibility of seeing Westbrook getting traded just gained more steam.

Unfortunately, Vogel’s future with the Lakers is also getting murky–hinting that heads may roll soon.