New York Knicks Receive: G Russell Westbrook, 2027 First-Round Pick (LAL), 2028 First-Round Pick (Swap – LAL)

Los Angeles Lakers Receive: F Julius Randle, G Derrick Rose

Historians will recall that this isn’t the first time Julius Randle has donned the purple-and-gold.

In fact, Randle was part of the blockbuster trade that brought Anthony Davis to the Lakers. That deal helped them win a championship, yet, some Lakers fans wish it had never transpired.

It’s an interesting debate. On the one hand, it’s easy to make the case that a championship trumps all.

On the other hand, the Lakers surrendered a lot to get Davis: Randle, Brandon Ingram, Lonzo Ball, Larry Nance Jr., and three unprotected first-round picks, to be exact.

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Had they kept that package, they surely wouldn’t be in the predicament they’re in now. In any event, nothing is likely to bring Ingram or Ball back this summer (not to mention those picks). Randle, on the other hand, could be readily available.

Is he worth the cost the Lakers are paying here?