New York Knicks
New York Knicks Receive: G Russell Westbrook, 2027 First-Round Pick (LAL), 2029 First-Round Pick (LAL)
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: F Julius Randle, G/F Evan Fournier
If you’ve been following the New York Knicks this summer, you know this isn’t the most talked-about rumor surrounding the team. Many expect them to make a bid for Utah Jazz star Donovan Mitchell.
In that light, this deal makes less immediate sense. Yes, Julius Randle had a down year in 2021-22, but he’s still likely to impact winning more than Westbrook in 2022-23, right?
Sure. On the other hand, this deal is about building around Mitchell in the future. Here, the Knicks land a massive expiring contract and some draft capital for two veterans on long-term, big-money deals. It may not help them next season, but it could help them land a more legitimate co-star for Mitchell in 2023-24 or later.
On the Lakers’ end, there is risk here. If Randle repeats his 2021-22 performance, they might be trading two first-round picks for a marginal-at-best roster upgrade.
LATEST NBA NEWS AND RUMORS: Jazz, Knicks, Pacers Talked Lakers Russell Westbrook Trade
On the other hand, if Randle can repeat his 2020-21 performance, the Lakers get an All-NBA Third Team caliber player.
Given how disappointing their 2021-22 season was, that feels like a risk this organization has to take.
