Last summer saw several trade rumors surrounding Russell Westbrook. The Lakers were apparently looking for a new home for the former MVP.
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The reason behind this was down to the abysmal season Brodie had the previous year. A season of dread for the Lakers that many attributed to him.
Well, Westbrook is currently doing a great job for the purple and gold of the bench. Averaging 16 points, six rebounds, and seven assists per game. But, it looks like the rumors are back and this time he could be headed to Utah.
LA Lakers reportedly engaged in trade talks to send Russell Westbrook to the Utah Jazz
As of today, Russell Westbrook is the odds in favorite to win Sixth Man of the Year. He is playing quite well for the Lakers off the bench.
So, it comes as a surprise that his name is back in the trade rumor mill. That’s right, if reports are to be believed, the LA Lakers are looking to send Brodie to the Utah Jazz. A rumor that was persistent back when the season kicked off.
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It certainly would be a heck of a trade. Any package for the former MVP will have to include Mike Conley, and in return, the Jazz will take on Russ’ contract and perhaps a pick or two from the Lakers.
A move like this would be huge. Especially considering that the Lakers are pushing to make it into the Play-In tournament in the West.
Russ could explore a buyout if traded to the Jazz
If a trade were to go through, the chances of Russell Westbrook looking for a buyout are high. While the Jazz is in a favorable position in the West, they are not exactly contenders. So, it might be in Russ’ best interest to have his contract bought out and look to sign with a contending team.
NBA sources have listed the Miami Heat as a potential destination for Russell Westbrook as a post-trade buyout candidate, per @EricPincus pic.twitter.com/5WBPifayi1
— NBACentral (@TheNBACentral) December 14, 2022
As the deadline draws closer, it will be interesting to see just what the Lakers do. And of course, if they pull the trigger, where does Westbrook end up?