Charlotte Hornets receive: Russell Westbrook, 2027 First-Round Pick (LAL)
Los Angeles Lakers receive: Rudy Gobert, Gordon Hayward, Terry Rozier
Utah Jazz receive: Anthony Davis
The Charlotte Hornets may not look at Russell Westbrook and see Russell Westbrook. They may see the expiring contract attached to his name.
This group has a particular incentive to cut costs. Miles Bridges is due for restricted free agency this summer. LaMelo Ball will need a rookie extension soon after. This roster is going to get expensive, and there won’t be room for Terry Rozier or Gordon Hayward’s sizeable contracts. Here, they land an expiring pact and a first-round pick for their two pricey veterans.
Meanwhile, the Lakers make huge, sweeping changes with this trade. Many observers expect them to move Westbrook. Few expect them to move Davis, but it’s not inconceivable. On the other hand, trading both would shock the NBA-watching world.
On the other hand, the return they’re getting would be appropriate. This deal gives the Lakers the deepest team they’ve had in the LeBron James era.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Los Angeles Lakers Eyeing Aggressive Trade During 2022 NBA Draft
With that said, if Donovan Mitchell is truly set on forcing his way out of Salt Lake City, it may not be depth the Lakers end up coveting.
