With implosion seemingly imminent in Houston, countless rumors have emerged regarding the next possible destination of Russell Westbrook.
According to ESPN insider Bobby Marks, the Lakers are among a few potential suitors in the event Westbrook is put on the trade block.
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The 31-year-old star has a controversial game that is described as “powerful” and, at times, “reckless.” Last season, he averaged 27.2 points per game and 7 assists but was often the source of turnovers and missed-shots down the stretch of some important games.
Even worse is his awkward fit with James Harden, a player who (like Westbrook) is at his best when the ball is in his hands. Their questionable partnership was exposed at points throughout the season and especially in the playoffs, where they suffered a second-round defeat at the hands of the Lakers.
If Houston does elect to hit the reset button, and Westbrook is sent away, it makes sense that the Purple and Gold would be interested. Even with LeBron James and Anthony Davis, they have been searching for that third-star for months now. Russ would be an instant upgrade to who they currently have available in their backcourt, and the dynamic between him and LeBron would be an interesting one to watch.
But whether or not the Lakers are willing to take that risk is not yet known. With LeBron James going on 36, there is little room for error in regards to how they assemble their roster.
As for the Clippers, it might be the best location of all for the former MVP. The Clippers seem to have an identity and leadership crisis — a problem that a loud voice like Russ could settle. Playing alongside a defensive juggernaut like Kawhi Leonard should help cover his flaws on that end of the floor.
In the end, the future seems bright for Westbrook. The question is, how much more of that future will involve the Rockets? Will he ever suit up with them again?
We’ll find out soon enough.
