Every NBA offseason has a calm period, and we eventually begin to wonder, "Are we still talking about this?"
Ramona Shelburne, who was speaking with Zach Lowe on ESPN's The Lowe Post podcast this week, verified reports that date back to the end of last season (or beyond) but have come up again: Westbrook is open to trade outside of Los Angeles in addition to the Lakers seeking to get him.
Russ is quite receptive to a deal. He has not requested a trade. That has been confirmed to me. He's open to that, though, and someone who wants to empower him and make him into the old Russell Westbrook.
The team that wants to trade for Westbrook and give him the offensive reins like it's 2017 doesn't exist, according to Lowe on the podcast. Other teams are trading for Westbrook to obtain the "sweeteners," or draught picks, rather than the player because of his huge expiring deal. These groups intend to release Westbrook.
The Lakers' reluctance to part with their only two first-round picks in this decade (2027 and 2029) and their unwillingness to take on payroll beyond this season are the main factors impeding a Westbrook deal. However, they may have approximately $30 million in cap room to boost the roster next summer. It will be nearly impossible to deal with Westbrook given those limitations. as demonstrated.
This brings up something that Thad Foucher, Westbrook's former agent, said after the two parted ways this summer: Westbrook's "best option is to stay with the Lakers, embrace the starting role and support that Darvin Ham gave." Simply said, Westbrook needs to increase his value. Yes, for a potential trade, but more crucially for his upcoming contract, whichever one it may be next summer. Westbrook can still contribute to a team and play but in a different capacity. Perhaps as the sixth guy, but would he be open to playing that part?
Westbrook will have a role under Lakers coach Darvin Ham this year. One of the key things to monitor this season in Los Angeles will be whether he is willing to play it or would prefer to follow Shaq's advice.
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