The Los Angeles Lakers are off to an underwhelming start to the 2022-23 NBA season. Of course, it’s early, but things aren’t looking great.

In a competitive Western Conference landscape, it will be challenging for a team to overcome a slow start to the season. Teams tend to use a wait-and-see approach, but will it be too late?

At this point, it’s clear: the Lakers have got their share of problems. Many of them relate to Russell Westbrook. Unfortunately, the former MVP had a hard time finding his footing playing alongside LeBron James in 2021-22. 

Perhaps the best solution to that problem has been obvious for a while — move Westbrook via trade.

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Gordon Hayward, Charlotte Hornets & Los Angeles Lakers Updates

One intriguing trade scenario could involve a trade that sends Westbrook to a team that becomes more open to tanking. The Charlotte Hornets could be a helpful option with veteran talents that have a more cohesive skill-set than Westbrook.

Here’s a deal that has the Lakers finally taking advantage of it by landing Gordon Hayward.