The Los Angeles Lakers may reside in Hollywood, but you couldn’t call 2021-22 a storybook NBA season for them. Unless, of course, it was in the Horror genre.
When the team acquired Russell Westbrook last summer, many questioned the fit between him and LeBron James. Still, most questions revolved around how far they might be able to advance into the playoffs.
Very few observers expected them to miss the play-in tournament altogether.
Nonetheless, that’s exactly what happened. Now, many are anticipating that they’ll shop Russell Westbrook this summer. That may be easier said than done. The former MVP is on a massive contract, and his value has come under question around the NBA.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Lakers Unwilling To Use Assets To Trade Russell Westbrook
What if the Lakers continue to build around Westbrook, James, and Anthony Davis instead? Can new Head Coach Darvin Ham find a way to mitigate Westbrook’s shooting deficiencies? Could a better-fitting supporting cast maximize this team’s Big 3?
If their front office is interested in finding out, here are three trade ideas that would allow them to do so.