Russell Westbrook
Prediction: Not traded to the Lakers
It should be noted that Russell Westbrook’s future with the Washington Wizards is dependent upon Bradley Beal’s future with the organization. If Beal proceeds to request a trade soon, then Westbrook would inevitably want to be traded as well.
Amid the uncertainty surrounding the Wizards, there have been murmurs of the Lakers pursuing a trade for Westbrook this offseason.
Los Angeles is seeking an All-Star caliber guard to pair with LeBron James and Anthony Davis, which would lighten the load on James. The Lakers realize that their offense needs someone else that can create when James isn’t on the floor.
It would undoubtedly be exciting to see Westbrook in purple and gold, but Los Angeles doesn’t have much to offer. Besides Caldwell-Pope and Kuzma, the Lakers could maybe offer Dennis Schroder, Montrezl Harrell, and/or Talen Horton-Tucker in a sign-and-trade.
READ MORE: Top landing spot for NBA’s top stars in trade rumors
Even though it would be tough to conduct a trade for Westbrook, I would venture to say it’s the second-most likely move of the bunch. As unlikely as it would be, getting both Russell Westbrook and Buddy Hield would be a fantastic offseason for Los Angeles.
