Russell Westbrook remains confident: 'I know I'm a good shooter' / News - Basketnews.com

Russell Westbrook continues to think he's a good shooter and believes getting rid of low-quality attempts can improve his percentages.

Credit: AP-Scanpix Credit AP-Scanpix

Russell Westbrook will start his second season with the Los Angeles Lakers next week in a season opener against the Golden State Warriors.

Russell Westbrook

Position:PGAge:33Height:191 cmWeight:85 kgBirth place:Long Beach, United States of AmericaProfileNewsStatistics

Darvin Ham will lead the team as the new head coach this year. Talking about the change in leadership, Westbrook was certain it will help him improve.

"Definitely different," the player said about the coach's system after practice. "Just the ability to be able to get in the open floor, attack with space, take my time. Miss or make, shots will come as the season prolongs. But just get in that rhythm and know that I can get to any spot that I want to and get in-rhythm shots for sure, so far."

Westbrook has been heavily criticized for his lack of shooting prowess as one of the stars of the league. While the league average was 35.4% last season, the Lakers guard shot only 29.8% from beyond the arc.

"I know I'm a good shooter, and I'm very confident in myself and my ability to shoot the basketball," Westbrook told. "Just continue working on my craft as I always have, and take good shots. The quality of shots is important. Making sure I'm not taking the bad ones is something I try to emphasize, attacking the basket."

Last year, Westbrook was fifth in the league in turnovers per game and second in total turnovers. He's also fifth all-time in turnovers in NBA history. Talking about the issue, the guard gave an explanation.

"My speed sometimes speeds me up and lets me get to a place fast," he said. "But my patience and understanding of my spacing and my spots are important to my efficiency and how I can improve in finishing around the rim, making shots, and not rushing."

Last night, the Lakers beat the Warriors 124-121 (35-33, 25-19, 29-39, 35-30) in a preseason matchup. Alongside LeBron James, Westbrook did not play in the match due to a coach's decision.

Support BasketNews so we could make even better content.