Charlotte Hornets Receive: G Russell Westbrook, 2027 First-Round Pick (LAL)
Washington Wizards Receive: G James Bouknight, F Talen Horton-Tucker, C Mason Plumlee, 2025 First-Round Pick (LAL), 2029 First-Round Pick (LAL)
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: G Bradley Beal, F Gordon Hayward
This trade leaves both the Los Angeles Lakers and Washington Wizards in a better position than the previous iteration. Assuming the Hornets’ rumored interest in Westbrook is real, it makes life easier for both organizations.
The Lakers are parting with the same package to bring Beal into the fold, only this time, they’re getting Gordon Hayward as a bonus. While most rumors suggest that they prefer Terry Rozier, they’ll probably be willing to compromise here. They’re getting Bradley Beal.
As for the Wizards, they’re getting some young talent at the expense of one draft pick. James Bouknight didn’t see a lot of playing time for the Hornets in 2021-22, but he’s only a season removed from being selected with the 11th overall pick in the NBA draft.
Meanwhile, Talen Horton-Tucker struggled with his three-point efficiency last season, but he still holds potential as well.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Lakers Writer Suggests Wild LeBron James Blockbuster Trade
Meanwhile, the Hornets are arguably getting the shortest end of this stick. Acquiring Westbrook with LaMelo Ball on the roster feels like a misallocation of resources.
Still, their interest is so heavily rumored that we’re willing to take it as a given. They get a first-round pick for their involvement here as well.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Lakers Writer Suggests Wild LeBron James Blockbuster Trade
Admittedly, three first-round picks is a premium cost to pay for the Lakers. Regardless, if they wish to acquire a player of Beal’s caliber, it’s a price that they may have to pay.
