NBA News Roundup, Wednesday, April 24th: Russell Westbrook's leadership criticized, Luke Walton wasn't fired by Lakers, and more

Russell Westbrook's ability to lead the Thunder criticized

Russell Westbrook has struggled in his matchup against Lillard

Russell Westbrook has struggled throughout the 2019 playoffs and ESPN's Stephen A. Smith believes the Oklahoma City Thunder will struggle to win with Westbrook leading the team:

It appears to be no at this particular moment of time, it appears to be no. Not if Russell Westbrook is your number one option, not if he’s your leader. Nobody would sense with questioning the talent of Russell Westbrook. We know he’s an elite talent, he’s Superstar caliber talent, but when you play the point guard position and you’re ball-dominant, meaning you’re running the offense and most of the stuff is in your hand, that means a decision making is also on your shoulders, not just your prowess as an athlete and as an individual talent

During his 11 years with the organisation, Westbrook has reached the NBA Finals once, although he has failed to lead the team past the first round of the playoffs since Kevin Durant's departure back in 2016.