Westbrook was never one of my favorite players during most of his prime, but seeing how Westbrook has handled his last few years helped me gain a lot of respect for him.
Sure he never was the lead guy on a championship team, but his competitiveness is amazing. He played his best through all the Lakers drama. Westbrook also put up 37 in a playoff game in the most recent playoffs. I’m quite a huge fan of this late-career Westbrook.
Kobe - when I first started following the NBA as a kid, Kobe was the player I liked to root against. Near the end of his career I had nothing but love for him.
I think probably Rondo or Pat Bev. I always hated Rondo on that Celtics teams but really appreciated the insight and leadership he brought to the court. Pat Bev, well, he’s one of those enforcer dudes that backs up their teammates every team loves to have. I think it’s a shame his time on the Lakers were short but, with us so heavy on guards to start last season, his contract was going to be moved regardless. When he’s not on your team, it’s easy to hate him lol