Charlotte Hornets Receive: G Russell Westbrook, 2026 First-Round Pick (Swap – LAL), 2027 First-Round Pick (LAL)
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: F Gordon Hayward, G Terry Rozier
Before Kyrie Irving’s drama with the Brooklyn Nets began to unfold, this was a popular hypothetical trade proposal for the Los Angeles Lakers. Are we sure this isn’t a better return?
Granted, neither Gordon Hayward nor Terry Rozier is as talented as Irving, but don’t sell either short. Hayward was a star in this league before a gruesome injury set him on another path. He’s still a high-end playmaking wing who could help this team.
Meanwhile, Rozier replicates a portion of Irving’s productivity. He’s not as skilled, but he’s still a starting-caliber penetrating guard who also spaces the floor. This deal would make the team significantly better in 2022-23.
Combined, this package might yield more on-court impact than Irving alone. The Lakers have made some solid signings this summer, but they could still stand to enhance their depth. With this deal, they’re landing two starting-caliber players instead of one.
LATEST NBA NEWS AND TRADE RUMORS: Kyrie Irving Trade To Los Angeles Lakers Matter Of ‘When’ Not ‘If’
Most importantly, each of these players, you know, play. On a regular basis, in fact, if they’re physically able to. It would be hard for the Lakers to put a price on that.
