Over the past couple of days, Russell Westbrook’s name has been thrown in several trade rumors, with some pointing out the point guard’s time with the Los Angeles Lakers could end way earlier than expected.
Recent reports suggested the Lakers had internal talks about trading Westbrook. He could be used in a deal to land Philadelphia 76ers’ disgruntled star Ben Simmons, but the Sixers don’t consider Westbrook a good return for the Australian playmaker.
This situation sparked many debates around the league, with fans and media members giving their two pennies on what the Lakers should do with Russ. ESPN’s Jay Williams recently made the case against the Purple and Gold trading the 2017 MVP, pointing out that they aren’t going through a terrible situation and things can get better for them.
“It’s not like the Lakers are in the seller. They are just behind where people projected them to be based on the names that they have on their roster and they’ll get it turned around and if they don’t get it turned around, then they miss an opportunity in LeBron James’ career to get another championship.”
“I stay with it. I don’t make the move of letting Russell Westbrook go, I stick with it. I do think there are other things the Lakers can do.”
Frank Vogel, LeBron James, Anthony Davis and Westbrook himself believe this situation can be reverted and the Lakers can find their rhythm. They have won three straight games and that’s a good thing for them. They’ll face the Minnesota Timberwolves tomorrow trying to win four consecutive games for the first time this season.
That could be a good start for the Lakers to prove that it was a matter of time before they meshed and play like actual title contenders.
Russell Westbrook’s contract is big and not many teams can make a move (or want to) to land such a big deal. Meanwhile, Russ keeps trying to play better and help his team reach the next level in a tumultuous campaign.
