The Los Angeles Lakers are always a part of rumors pertaining to acquiring star players. In this off-season, one of their supposed targets was Russell Westbrook. On July 29th, during NBA Draft Day, the Lakers acquired Westbrook from the Washington Wizards in exchange for Kyle Kuzma, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Montrezl Harrell, and a 2021 first-round NBA Draft Pick.
The Lakers and Wizards are discussing a trade that would send Kyle Kuzma, Montrezl Harrell, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope for Westbrook, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. The Lakers' No. 22 pick in the Draft could be in play, too. https://t.co/RQOnlyVnBS
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 29, 2021
For the first time since his Oklahoma City Thunder days, Westbrook is on a serious championship-contending team. The Lakers now have a big three in place. How will this move impact Westbrook, the Lakers, and the Wizards going forward?
Russell Westbrook Traded to The Los Angles Lakers
Russell Westbrook’s Redemption Arc
Westbrook is known as one of the hard-working players in the NBA. He averaged a triple-double in four seasons and he has won an MVP award. He plays with fury and passion. However, Westbrook’s individual accolades have not manifested to what he wants most: a title. He has taken the brunt of criticism over his style of play and attitude. Also, his erratic shooting in big games has come under fire numerous times. Westbrook has a chance to not only become more efficient shooting-wise but also to become a champion. Despite constant heat, Westbrook is one of the most decorated point guards in the NBA. He has an opportunity to complete his search for redemption.
The Lakers’ Big Three
Westbrook is now teammates with LeBron James and Anthony Davis. The Lakers are now early title favorites once again. All three players are great at their position and have unquestionable basketball IQ. Also, Westbrook adds a fierce, competitive spirit the Lakers haven’t seen in a long time. However, the Lakers still have more moves to make. The Lakers still need shooters to surround Westbrook and James. Also, the Lakers need another big man who can play pick-and-roll offense well. The injury concerns have not changed given the history of all three players. Westbrook gives the Lakers a better shot at winning a championship but it is still not guaranteed. Especially considering how treacherous the Western Conference is with teams such as the Denver Nuggets, Golden State Warriors, Phoenix Suns, Utah Jazz, and Los Angeles Clippers still in the mix.
Should the Wizards Start Rebuilding?
On the other side of this trade, the Wizards are still in an odd place. They now have three veteran players in Harrell, Caldwell-Pope, and Kuzma to play with Bradley Beal. Unloading Westbrook did not give way to the Wizards starting over. Instead, they remain in the same territory. Many suspect that they will look to move Beal. However, Beal has not formally asked for a trade. He is on record of saying he wants to stay and win in Washington. The Wizards can still be a playoff team in the Eastern Conference, especially if Kuzma and Rui Hachimura can excel. It would be interesting to see if all of those veteran players will stay throughout the entire season and whether or not it can translate to some success in the Eastern Conference.
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