Washington Wizards: Pros and Cons of a Russell Westbrook sign-and-trade with the Los Angeles Lakers
By Ethan Smith
Final Verdict: Don’t make the trade
As is, this trade does not do enough for the Washington Wizards. If for some reason, Westbrook is unhappy behind the scenes and has asked or will ask for a trade, maybe the Wizards consider this one. But without more impactful players or draft picks involved (of which the Lakers have few if any to offer), this is not worth it.
A Russell Westbrook trade should not be off-limits this offseason. But as the Wizards try to get back to the top of the East, losing a superstar (aging or not) seems like a step in the wrong direction. Especially when no one that they are getting in return is close to All-Star caliber. Just last season, the Rockets got a 2023 first-round pick and John Wall for Westbrook. Despite Wall having an injury-laden season in Houston, that package is better than the three-player swap that the Lakers are offering. If Wizards acquire Schroder, Kuzma, and THT, they may have the supporting cast around Beal taken care of, but they would still be at least one star away from being a contender. At best, it is a lateral move.
Since taking over for Ernie Grunfeld, Tommy Sheppard has made smart decisions. If he sends Westbrook to LA for Schroder, Kuzma, and Horton-Tucker, it would be a dumb one.
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