Charlotte Hornets Receive: G Russell Westbrook, 2027 First-Round Pick (LAL)
Brooklyn Nets Receive: G Terry Rozier, F Gordon Hayward
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: G Kyrie Irving
We know you’ve seen permutations of this deal before. Realistically, it’s a version of the hottest rumor in the NBA universe. It could also make sense for all parties involved.
The Hornets are up against a cap crunch. With recent, unfortunate news about Miles Bridges’ criminal activity, it’s hard to say what happens with his restricted free agency.
With that said, if he’s played his last game as a Hornet, they’ll still need to clear cap space. This team will be rebuilding without any incentive to be tied to big-money veterans.
Meanwhile, the Nets could be hesitant to pull the trigger here. They’re downgrading in terms of talent, which is always a risky proposition with Kevin Durant on your roster.
LATEST NBA FREE AGENCY NEWS AND TRADE RUMORS: Lakers, Nets Could Re-Visit Kyrie Irving, Russell Westbrook Trade?
Still, a core group of Durant, Rozier, Hayward, and Ben Simmons could contend with the right pieces around them. The Nets could be a stretch big man away from improving on last year’s performance.
Finally, the Los Angeles Lakers can’t hesitate here. Yes, Kyrie Irving is one of the least reliable players in the NBA. It just so happens that they already know they can’t win with Westbrook. Rolling the dice, by default, would have to be preferable.
