The Los Angeles Lakers find themselves as the 13th seed in the Western Conference, tied with the Oklahoma City Thunder at 15-21. While the West is quite open this season, the Lakers don’t look like a threat to anyone. They had a good stretch when Anthony Davis was back on the court and looking back to his best, but that was unfortunately hampered by injuries once again.
The Lakers don’t look like they can consistently pick up wins at the minute, with Chris Broussard going as far as to suggest that LeBron James can no longer lead a good team. There is no inclination to make a trade happen as well if reports are to be believed. And while Russell Westbrook has found a role for himself on the roster, some think ultimately, he will have to be traded for the team to have any success.
NBA Writer Claims That The One Player The Lakers Need To Trade Is Russell Westbrook
Russell Westbrook has regained some value with his recent performances, but his expiring contract packaged in with one or two of their remaining first-round picks is what could get the Lakers some necessary pieces. Some believe Westbrook should be allowed to stay after how he’s played at times this season, but it’s clear that the fit is still bad in LA for the former MVP. And Andy Bailey of Bleacher Report believes it’s time for the Lakers to make it happen.
“It’s long past time for the Los Angeles Lakers to end the Russell Westbrook era, even if that doesn’t mean the team wins the trade in a landslide. That seems to be what general manager Rob Pelinka is waiting for, and that deal just might not be out there. In the meantime, the bad fit between Westbrook and LeBron James continues to cost L.A. games and diminish its chances to make the playoffs.
“Right now, the Lakers have a point differential around that of a 31-win team when Westbrook is on the floor and one around that of a 38-win team when he’s off. That second number certainly won’t blow anyone away, but finishing around 40 wins might get L.A. into the play-in tournament. And if LeBron and Anthony Davis are healthy for win-or-go-home games (big ifs, for sure), you have to like the team’s chances to make the playoffs.’
The Lakers are standing at an impasse, and Rob Pelinka will need to make a decision soon. But there is already chatter about LeBron James getting traded away if they miss the play-in once more, and the Lakers need to take it seriously. The team is in a bit of dire shape in terms of assets, and if they want to maximize their current star power, a trade should be a no-brainer.
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