Why The Los Angeles Lakers Do The Deal
Frankly, if we were managing the Lakers, this deal may not be on the table. Westbrook and a pair of first-round picks would likely already have been shipped out for some better-fitting veterans.
That doesn’t mean it’s the only way forward.
Here, the Lakers make a smaller move that’s aimed at maximizing the stars they do have. James has always been best utilized surrounded by floor spacers, and so has Westbrook. So, why not go out and get another floor spacer? Best of all, the Lakers don’t have to break the bank to land Duarte – if they’re in the league’s basement by 2027, they get to retain their pick here.
This can’t be the only change the Lakers make ahead of 2022-23. With that said, perhaps the most significant changes they make can be internal. If new coach Darvin Ham can find a more fitting role for Westbrook, that could make a bigger difference than any trade the Lakers could make.
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Sometimes, you’ve got to make changes within instead of making changes in your life.
All we know is that something has to give. The Lakers cannot afford a repeat of 2021-22 – even if it saves them some draft capital.