With his poor performance, Lakers, Garland at the party”>Russell Westbrook could be traded by the February deadline. Possibly? The market is very light, but there is hope: the Rockets. Nevertheless, and if Rob Pelinka wants to go all the way, he will have to comply with a requirement of the Texans.
The deadline approaching, a question arises on the side of the Lakers: should we separate from Russell Westbrook ? Many are for it, while others want to keep the leader. However, the market could settle this soap opera, with very limited interest according to several sources.
It’s simple: Adrian Wojnarowski believes that no franchise wants the player at the moment. The reason is simple, since his contract is problematic, Russ receiving nearly 47 million next year. The return isn’t ideal, and it will take concessions from the Angelinos to see a trade happen.
How the Lakers can trade Westbrook
The problem for Pelinka, who will have to make important decisions, is that the trumps are few. Kendrick Nunn? Talen Horton-Tucker? Here are two players who could pack their bags. But according to Marc Stein, the Rockets want something else to validate this trade.
The Lakers could convince Houston to take Westbrook against Wall with the 2027 first-round pick in the deal. The Angelinos could offer several second rounds instead, but it’s that first round that’s coveted.
Here’s how the Crimson and Gold could send Westbrook elsewhere, but it’s not that simple. Sacrificing a first turn to make a player leave is not the best strategy. Plus, who knows where the franchise will be in 5 years: towards the title? Or in full reconstruction? This pick could be vital for the sequel.
There’s always hope that Westbrook will wake up, like with his performance against the Magic. This is still the best case scenario:
Russell Westbrook at the Rockets? The idea is posed, but the Lakers will have to make efforts. Is Rob Pelinka ready to turn the page? If so, he at least knows what to do.
