Charlotte Hornets Receive: G Russell Westbrook, C Jakob Poeltl
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: F Gordon Hayward, F Doug McDermott, G Terry Rozier, G Josh Richardson, 2023 First-Round Pick (SAS), 2024 First-Round Pick (Top 5 Protected – CHA)
San Antonio Spurs Receive: F/C Anthony Davis
Talk about a blockbuster. Don’t bother trying to get online for a few days if this trade transpires in the summer. The internet will be broken.
The Hornets’ interest in Westbrook, while puzzling, is well-documented. Perhaps they think they could be the team to convince him to transition into a sixth-man role. Meanwhile, they were rumored to be pursuing Poeltl at this year’s deadline. This deal sees them getting both of their men.
The Lakers are making a massive shakeup here. They’re probably downgrading in pure talent, but they’re comfortably upgrading in fit. They may again be a separate deal away from real contention, but a core group of James, Gordon Hayward, Rozier, and one more quality starter could be very successful.
They’re also getting first-round picks again. In this scenario, they may opt to package those separately with Talen Horton-Tucker to bring in another fringe star.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Russell Westbrook Takes Shot At LeBron James, Anthony Davis
As for the Spurs, they’re landing the best player in the deal. Injuries and poor shooting last season plagued Davis, but he’d undoubtedly elevate the Spurs back into playoff contention next season if he can return to form.
In all likelihood, that’s the goal for the Spurs. They seem organizationally opposed to conventional rebuilding. If they’re looking to return to relevancy sooner than later, gambling on Anthony Davis feels smart.
