Russell Westbrook is struggling to lead the Washington Wizards to the playoffs alongside Bradley Beal and even though they have collected a couple of good wins recently, things look very complicated for the capital team.
The team’s front office could be ready to start a new chapter without Russ and Beal. They have a couple of young players that can create a competitive squad in the future and that should kick off a rebuilding process for the Wizards, who have tried to compete in the East but things haven’t gone in their favor, not even when John Wall was part of the team. A lot of people believe they should ship Bradley Beal and see what they can get in return for the All-Star shooting guard but Greg Swartz of Bleacher Report believes Russell Westbrook should get traded first.
“While the Wizards should probably consider trading Bradley Beal while his value is at an all-time high, it’s worth examining the market for his backcourt mate first.”
“The 2017 MVP is averaging 24.0 points, 12.4 rebounds, 12.4 assists, 1.2 steals, and shooting 44.3 percent over his past 18 games. Those are numbers few in the NBA can match. When Westbrook is in attack mode and not settling for jumpers, he’s still one of the most devastating offensive weapons in the NBA.
“The Wizards should be calling contenders who look to be desperate for a point guard upgrade after the playoffs (Los Angeles Clippers?) just to try to get off Westbrook’s contract.”
This would be a very interesting move for the Wizards, who could be benefited from Russ’ pedigree around the league. He’s gotten better in recent games and although the Wizards have been unable to make the leap and compete for a spot in the postseason. The Wizards have players like Deni Avdija, Thomas Bryant, and Rui Hachimura, who could help this team compete if they keep developing.
Russ was dealt by the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2019, the Houston Rockets did the same in 2020 and he could have the same fate at the end of this season. He’s pretty happy with his career but a lot of fans would want to see him in a contender again and see if he can win that elusive NBA championship.
