Brooklyn Nets Receive: G Russell Westbrook, 2027 First-Round Pick (LAL)
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: G Kyrie Irving, F Joe Harris
This trade finds old friends reuniting on both sides. Even if you don’t like it from a basketball perspective, that should give you the warm and fuzzies on its own.
In Los Angeles, Irving reunites with the one man who ever seemed able to lead him in LeBron James. This deal is a no-brainer for the Los Angeles Lakers. Irving, unlike Westbrook, is an effective shooter. That alone makes him a better fit alongside James. Adding a sniper-like Joe Harris doesn’t hurt either.
It’s not as simple for the Brooklyn Nets. Westbrook and Ben Simmons project as an untenable fit. The Nets may have to shop Simmons elsewhere, and given his availability issues of late, they may get pennies on the dollar for their investment.
On the other hand, they may wonder if Westbrook and Durant can rekindle the flame that saw them make an NBA Finals appearance so long ago on the Oklahoma City Thunder.
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If they’re interested in this deal, it’ll be because they figure Westbrook’s rough 2021-22 season had more to do with his fit in LA than his abilities.
If they’re skeptical about that claim, these teams could still make something happen with the involvement of a third team.
