Los Angeles Lakers Receive: G Mike Conley, G/F Alex Burks, C Nerlens Noel
Utah Jazz Receive: G Russell Westbrook, 2027 First-Round Pick (LAL), 2029 First-Round Pick (LAL)
Detroit Pistons Receive: F Bojan Bogdanovic
Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Lakers may have discovered an even worse position in 2021-22. On paper, they were contenders, but they had the record of a rebuilding team.
With 34 wins, the Lakers were one of the most disappointing teams we’ve ever seen in the NBA. They need to make sweeping changes this summer. Realistically, those changes should probably include trading Russell Westbrook.
On the other hand, nobody needs to talk to the Utah Jazz about sweeping changes. They’ve already made them. Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert are gone, and a slew of young players and 7 unprotected first-round picks have taken their place.
The Jazz realized they were trending downward, and they acted accordingly.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Bojan Bogdanovic, Utah Jazz & Detroit Pistons Updates
Life may not be so easy for the Lakers. They’re highly unlikely to be the first team in league history to trade LeBron James, so rebuilding isn’t a viable option. For that reason, many expect them to attach draft capital to Westbrook’s contract in order to improve the team.
Does this deal do enough to further that cause?
