The Houston Rockets and the Washington Wizards swapped Russell Westbrook and John Wall after weeks of incessant rumors.
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Westbrook had confirmed his intention to be placed on the trading block in mid-November. His refusal to show up to preseason camp was a signal that he wanted out, and quickly. The Rockets, thus, began shopping him in real earnest, after preliminary talks with Charlotte came to nought.
Eventually, the Rockets had to settle, trading for another wantaway star in John Wall. Wall was incensed with the Wizards front office for shopping him behind his back.
Most NBA onlookers view the trade as a wash – a low-reward deal done just because of roster situations. NBA executives happen to agree with that sentiment.
How NBA executives reacted to the John Wall-Russell Westbrook trade
One NBA executive was particularly scathing in his criticism of Westbrook. He believes the Brody would actually slow Beal down.
“Two of the worst contracts flipped for each other should tell you something. Did you see Russ play last year? He slowed down Harden. I feel bad for Beal.”
Another executive was a bit more positive about the whole affair, but he still didn’t seem too worried about the Rockets becoming stronger.
“It’s a wash. Both teams needed to make a trade. Washington has to give up a pick because Wall has a bigger injury history and hasn’t played in two years. The contracts were the same. Russ should be really good in the East. Scotty (Brooks) should know how to use him.”
“Washington will be better than they were since Russ is actually playing and Wall hasn’t been. I think Washington is for sure a playoff team.”
All in all, this is the kind of trade which has the potential to improve both the Rockets and the Wizards, but not by much.
