New York Knicks
Would this be smart for the New York Knicks? Could Russell Westbrook play in New York? Who knows, but if the Los Angeles Lakers want to move the point guard, they should target other teams that are looking to get rid of a contract.
For the New York Knicks, that is Julius Randle.
In August, Randle signed a four-year, $117 million contract to remain with the Knicks. After a lackluster season that included many outbursts on and off the court, Randle could be looking for a new home.
He might have expressed his intention to remain in New York but once again, the season has turned into a sideshow for the New York Knicks. This would not automatically change if Westbrook came to town but the two sides have been linked before.
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The New York Knicks have been unable to land a superstar to give them a chance to compete in the Eastern Conference. The Knicks have added some depth in the draft but there is no player that jumps out as a cornerstone to build around.
Even RJ Barrett seems like a solid second option for years to come. The question would be, can Westbrook fit or would he hinder the progress of the youngsters?
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New York has stayed away from Russell Westbrook in the past and it would be a surprise to see it in the mix now, especially when he is owed upwards of $47 million next season.
At the same time, this would allow them to move Randle and bring in a potential mentor to the next generation. If this move ever gets done, basketball fans can just sit back and enjoy the show on social media from New York Knicks fans.