Los Angeles Lakers Receive: G Terry Rozier, F Kelly Oubre Jr, C Mason Plumlee
Charlotte Hornets Receive: G Russell Westbrook, 2027 First-Round Pick, 2029 First-Round Pick
This is close to the framework that many people believe the Los Angeles Lakers and Charlotte Hornets could discuss. Los Angeles wants to move on from Russell Westbrook, while the Hornets want to alleviate some long-term salary commitments. That could make these teams a good match for each other.
The Lakers move on from Westbrook, which is one of their goals this offseason. They will likely have to attach a first-round pick along with him to get teams to bite. There is a second one included in this scenario because the Lakers are getting legitimate rotation upgrades.
Terry Rozier is a big upgrade at this point in his career over Westbrook. Westbrook may be a superior playmaker, but Rozier is solid in that department. Where Rozier outshines Westbrook is defensively and in 3-point shooting. The Lakers need upgrades in those areas and Rozier is a great fit alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
Along with Rozier, the Lakers are getting a strong wing player in Kelly Oubre Jr. He can play either forward spot, offering some scoring punch and versatility. Depending on how the rest of the offseason shakes out, Oubre can start or come off the bench.
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The center spot has been a bit of a black hole for Los Angeles this offseason and Plumlee would help shore that up. He was overmatched at times as a starter but can come off the bench with the Lakers, adding valuable depth.
Charlotte is getting the salary relief that they are seeking while landing some potentially great draft capital. They can use that to bring in established veterans to upgrade their roster, or as a sweetener to move on from someone such as Gordon Hayward in a separate deal.
