New York Knicks Receive: G Russell Westbrook, LAL 2027 1st Round Pick
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: G Derrick Rose, G/F Evan Fournier, G/F Alec Burks
It is no surprise to see things in Los Angeles not work out with Russell Westbrook, especially since he and LeBron James are such ball-dominant players that cannot really coexist with one another on the court at the same time.
Now, heading into the offseason, the Lakers have very limited resources because of their cap situation and must find a way to get Westbrook off their roster.
Other than the Rockets, the Knicks are the only other team that could show a level of interest in Russell Westbrook not only because of his expiring contract, but because they really need to address their backcourt.
Kemba Walker did not work out whatsoever for this franchise and now, with Derrick Rose coming off of an ankle injury that required surgery, now may be the best time to try and move the 33-year-old guard.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Latest Knicks Rumors To Monitor: Thibodeau, Westbrook, Free Agency, More
Getting out of the contracts of Derrick Rose, Alec Burks and Evan Fournier allows the Knicks to have more long-term cap availability, which could prove to be important since the free agent market this upcoming offseason is expected to be small.
Russell Westbrook’s fit alongside Julius Randle and R.J. Barrett would definitely be questionable, but this trade would allow the Knicks to get out of $47 million immediately following the 2022-23 season, allowing them to possibly pursue big names such as Khris Middleton, Fred VanVleet and possibly Zion Williamson in free agency.
Heading into the offseason, it is very clear to see that the Knicks have multiple holes to fill on their roster and there is no better player in the league at wearing multiple hats than Russell Westbrook.
He can score, rebound, facilitate and be a “one man show,” which is why he could be a superstar talent the Knicks are willing to roll the dice on, especially since they would not have to worry about his contract past the 2022-23 season.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Latest Knicks Rumors To Monitor: Thibodeau, Westbrook, Free Agency, More
Fixing their depth and secondary talent surrounding Anthony Davis and LeBron James is key for the Lakers, which is why moving Westbrook for three key role players is something that would pay off big time for them over the course of next season.
