Almost every season, the Lakers are bombarded by trade rumors. But for this season, in particular, the noise seems to be extra loud.
Thanks to a Lakers team that has been underwhelming so far, rumblings about roster changes have already been floating around.
In fact, even trade rumors about Russell Westbrook have surfaced. According to Bleacher Report’s Jake Fischer, the Lakers have discussed dealing shopping star point guard.
“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.”
The big problem for Russ is his inability to shoot efficiently. Alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis, it’s really important for him to be able to space the floor.
Russ is good enough to find other ways to win, but it doesn’t change that this team might work a lot better with an additional perimeter shooter in Westbrook’s place.
“This will be a tougher deal to make happen than people realize. Based on his high level of productivity when he’s at his best, his high turnovers when he’s struggling, and his high salary with his age. He’s gotten the chance to play with some of the best players in the game and now he’s playing with LeBron James and Anthony Davis….”
“…I love Russ so much. He reminds me of myself. The thing that reminds me so much of myself is we’re acquired taste.”
The Lakers had the chance to acquire other big names over the summer, including Buddy Hield and DeMar DeRozan. They specifically chose Russ over those guys, believing his skillset would bring them to the next level.
While the Lakers have been showing some signs of life recently, things haven’t panned out as the team had hoped.
Now, for better or worse, they’re going to have to see it through because Russ isn’t going anywhere.
