The Los Angeles Lakers have struggled early this season, making several people wonder if their big three can get the job done. Age was the primary problem coming into the season, as the roster is comprised of ten players over thirty years old.
With the trade deadline coming soon, rumors have been making the rounds involving the Lakers. The Athletic’s Shams Charania reported that they are one of the teams interested in Philadelphia 76ers star Ben Simmons. There is also chatter that they might also be gunning for the Detroit Pistons forward Jerami Grant.
Bleacher Report writer Jake Fischer has reported that there are internal talks regarding trade scenarios for Russell Westbrook.
“The trio of LeBron James, Anthony Davis and Russell Westbrook simply hasn’t blended as well as Lakers figures hoped, and Los Angeles has held internal discussions on trade scenarios for Russell Westbrook” 😳
– @JakeLFischer pic.twitter.com/5aUNeFxkQt
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) December 14, 2021
“The trio of LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Russell Westbrook simply hasn’t blended as well as Lakers figures hoped, and Los Angeles has held internal discussions on trade scenarios for Russell Westbrook.”
Coming into the season, there was concern about Westbrook’s impact with LeBron on the floor. Both players like to have the ball in their hand, and with LeBron being the captain, he will undoubtedly pull rank. Although his turnover rate has been an issue, Russ seemed to have blended in well with LeBron on the court.
Former Laker Metta Sandiford-Artest has come out to say he is impressed with Russ’ performance so far. But it seemingly looks like there are people in the organization who are not satisfied with what Westbrook has brought to the table so far.
Earlier today, it was reported that Brodie could be used in a trade deal to acquire Simmons. The premise was based on Daryl Morey liking Westbrook and might be interested in having him on his team again. For that to happen, a third team might need to be included in the trade to make the money work.
In 28 games played for the Lakers, Russ is averaging 19.5 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 8.4 assists. The Lakers opted for Westbrook to keep the offense running in situations when LeBron is unavailable, but he has not done a great job of that so far.
