Los Angeles Lakers Receive: C Derrick Favors, F Mike Muscala
Oklahoma City Thunder Receive: G Russell Westbrook, 2027 First-Round Pick, 2029 First-Round Pick
How the mighty have fallen.
Nobody could have predicted that anyone would consider moving Russell Westbrook for two role players a few years ago. If you told that person the team dealing Russ was attaching two first-round picks in the process, they’d question your sanity. Of course, you’re already claiming to be a time traveler, so…yeah
Regardless, Westbrook is widely regarded as having negative trade value around the league. This deal at least opens up some financial flexibility for the Lakers. It puts them under the luxury tax, which could allow them to resign Malik Monk. With more maneuvering, it might allow them to make a more significant upgrade elsewhere.
It’s not a dream scenario for Lakers fans. Far from it. That doesn’t mean there’s no logic in it. At least they’re getting some serviceable role players.
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Muscala is a serviceable stretch big, and Favors is the type of rim protector that could allow them to return to the dual big lineups that resulted in a 2019-20 championship.
We’ll warn Lakers fans right now: if you don’t like it, stop reading. The next deal isn’t substantially different.
