Charlotte Hornets Receive: G Russell Westbrook, 2027 First-Round Pick (LAL)

Minnesota Timberwolves Receive: G Terry Rozier, F Gordon Hayward

Los Angeles Lakers Receive: G D’Angelo Russell, G Patrick Beverley

Trade scenarios that land Russell Westbrook with the Charlotte Hornets have become downright fashionable. That’s because they make sense.

This Hornets roster is about to get expensive. Miles Bridges will likely be retained in restricted free agency this summer. LaMelo Ball’s rookie extension is not far behind. Even P.J. Washington is going to need money sooner than later.

They’ll need to clear cap space. This deal achieves that end. The Hornets pick up an expiring contract in Russell Westbrook and a first-round pick in exchange for Hayward and Rozier.

Speaking of that duo, they’ll be very welcomed in Minnesota. In fact, this deal gives them arguably the deepest roster they’ve had in the Towns era.

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: 3 Intriguing New Trade Ideas For Los Angeles Lakers’ Russell Westbrook

For that matter, the same could be said of the Lakers and their James era following this trade. In any event, they’d certainly be landing better-fitting pieces than Westbrook.