The Lakers aren’t quite in the best spot right now. Sure, they have shown some serious signs of improvement since the first few games of the season. However, they still sit just 12th in the Western Conference right now. Meaning they are barely in contention for a play-in spot.
Advertisement
However, it hasn’t been all bad.
One of the few bright spots of this season has been the resurgence of Russell Westbrook.
Ever since Brodie has hit some form, he has essentially won certain games for this team. And heck, some games have even been lost simply because he was on the bench for a tad too long during the game.
So, when it comes to the trade value of Westbrook, everything has gone according to plan for the Lakers. But, now that they’re here, do they want to trade him at all?
It appears that team owner, Jeanie Buss isn’t so sure.
Even with a return of Myles Turner and Buddy Hield, Jeanie Buss is hesitant to trade Russell Westbrook, the Athletic Reports
Ahead of the start of this current season, the Lakers were looking for any way possible to give away Russell Westbrook for a return of Myles Turner and Buddy Hield.
But, now that they don’t have to give away a mountain of assets to make it happen, they may not want it anymore. Here is what ‘The Athletic’ writer, Sam Amick wrote on the matter.
“Westbrook may not be thrilled with the role, but his improved play and intensity speak volumes about his willingness to accept the reality that it’s the right move for this team,” Amick wrote. “This is why Lakers owner Jeanie Buss was known to be reluctant to give up on Westbrook in those days leading into training camp, when they came so close to doing the well-chronicled deal with Indiana [Pacers] that would have sent Westbrook to the Pacers in exchange for big man Myles Turner and sharpshooter Buddy Hield.”
Admittedly, it is understandable for the owner to be feeling reluctant about the choice to make here.
In fact, how much can Buddy Hield and Myles Turner really help the Lakers as they are now?
What would Buddy Hield and Myles Turner bring to the Lakers?
There is no doubt both Buddy Hield and Myles Turner would bring some serious shooting to the Lakers, something they need dearly. Heck, these players are shooting 38% and 43% from deep respectively.
However, would giving up Russell Westbrook for them really make the Lakers better?
This is the man that has been their second-best player, behind a healthy Anthony Davis. Would losing him take the Lakers to a point where they have shooting, but no playmaker apart from LeBron James, to get the team easy shots?
If it does, no matter how many shooters they have, Jeanie Buss’s team will be right back to square one.
