New Los Angeles Lakers are typically brought to owner Jeanie Buss’ second-floor office overlooking the practice floor at the team’s training facility. And with good reason: On a specially designed credenza under a wide window sit 11 Larry O’Brien trophies — the centerpieces of the building and the sources of constant motivation — in full view of the courts.
In late August, shortly after the Lakers acquired him in a blockbuster trade with the Washington Wizards, Russell Westbrook became the latest in a long line of stars to make their maiden trip inside.
“I’m so happy that you’re here,” Buss told the 2017 MVP in a moment that was captured for the cable television show, “Backstage: Lakers on Spectrum SportsNet.”
As she launches into what must be an all-too-familiar speech, Buss tells Westbrook about her father, late owner Jerry Buss.
“My dad bought the team in 1979, and his first year of…
