The Lakers have actively engaged in trade talks centered around Westbrook. He opted into his $47 million player option this offseason. Moving Westbrook’s contract presents a favorable opportunity for the Lakers to acquire quality role players in a trade.
However, potential trade partners have refused to accept Russell Westbrook’s contract without draft compensation. The LA Lakers only have two first-round picks (2027 and 2029) to include in a package. So they are patient about finding the right deal.
GM Rob Pelinka discussed the option of including the picks in trade talks, saying:
Pelinka’s comments made it clear that the team would pursue trades by moving Russell Westbrook if there is an opportunity to get significant returns. So far, the Lakers’ rumored trade candidates are Buddy Hield, Myles Turner, Jordan Clarkson and Eric Gordon, among others.
Russell Westbrook says he’s willing to do what’s asked of him to help the LA Lakers
Russell Westbrook may not be in the starting lineup this season. Coach Darvin Ham was non-committal on Westbrook’s chances of being the lead point guard. Meanwhile, the former NBA MVP has also revealed his willingness to take up a role that the team needs him to do.
The Lakers have several options in the backcourt. Kendrick Nunn, Patrick Beverley, Dennis Schroder and even Austin Reaves are all starting caliber players. Coach Ham hasn’t decided on his starting backcourt yet, but he has mentioned the criteria. He said (via Mark Medina):
Russell Westbrook isn’t a defensive threat compared to his backcourt partners. However, the former NBA MVP has the potential to be efficient on that end of the floor.
It will be interesting to see the reports that come out of training camp. Several rumors suggest that Ham will decide on the Lakers’ starting backcourt during that time.
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