In a shocking turn of events, the Los Angeles Lakers were able to find a deal involving veteran point guard Russell Westbrook. After saying for weeks they weren’t pursuing a deal and didn’t want to dip into their remaining assets of first-round picks, things came to a head on Wednesday night. Soon he could be an NBA free agent.
The Lakers agreed to a three-team deal that also involved the Utah Jazz and Minnesota Timberwolves. Los Angeles received D’Angelo Russell, Malik Beasley and Jarred Vanderbilt.
The Timberwolves received Mike Conley Jr. and Nickeil Alexander-Walker and picks. Utah received Westbrook, Juan Toscano-Anderson, Damian Jones and a top-four protected first-round pick via the Lakers in 2027. If that pick does not convey, it will turn into a 2027 second-round pick.
That was a huge trade as the Lakers filled a lot of the remaining holes on their roster. But, it also left some questions about what the future of Westbrook would be. Given the current status of the Jazz as a rebuilding team, he doesn’t quite fit the timeline.
There is speculation that the Jazz could work on a buyout, which would lead to Westbrook hitting the market. If that were to happen, keep an eye on the LA Clippers as a landing spot as Paul George has already begun recruiting.
George and Westbrook played together with the Oklahoma City Thunder from 2017-2019 before George was traded to the Clippers in a massive trade. The two have seemingly remained close if George is going out of his way to convince him to stay in Los Angeles and suit up for the Clippers.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Russell Westbrook, Los Angeles Lakers, Paul George & LA Clippers Updates
But, is bringing Westbrook in what is best for the franchise? The Clippers were active ahead of the trade deadline acquiring Bones Hyland, Eric Gordon and Mason Plumlee in three separate deals. The team did trade away John Wall and Reggie Jackson from the backcourt, along with Luke Kennard. But it is fair to question how well Westbrook would fit into the mix of their new-look backcourt.
Westbrook had found his footing with the Lakers this season embracing his role as the team’s sixth man. He has averaged 15.9 points, 7.5 assists, 6.2 rebounds and 1.0 steals in 28.7 minutes per game.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Russell Westbrook, Los Angeles Lakers, Paul George & LA Clippers Updates
That success coming off the bench should lead to a bigger market for Westbrook once he is bought out. Besides He has proven he is willing to accept a role change and has succeeded in performing it.
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