One of the factors that led the Los Angeles Lakers to fire Frank Vogel was how he handled Russell Westbrook and his inability to make him a productive part of the team, sources tell Sam Amick of The Athletic. There were questions whether Westbrook was put in a situation to succeed by Vogel.

Phil Jackson, who is consulting the Lakers in an informal role, is known to have been a fan of Westbrook throughout his career.

While Jackson has no interest in coaching, his view on Westbrook is relevant. 

Entering the offseason, there was a strong sense that the Lakers would part ways with Westbrook, but that expectation is beginning to soften.