The Los Angeles Lakers seem to be lost in the trade market as they lose the players they wanted. The general manager Rob Pelinka failed to cast a net that could have netted one of the biggest fish in the market, Kyrie Irving. And Russell Westbrook was the one who could have made a place for the fellow point guard, along with precious first-round draft picks. However, the Lakers have always been cautious about their first-draft picks which would help secure their future.
It is not the first time the Lakers have refused a deal in the market to avoid trading their draft picks. But the addition of distinct Kyrie would have made a tremendous difference for their playoff chance. However, LA sits at 13th position with only one addition Rui Hachimura until now. According to experts and insiders, Hollywood will need a few more changes to strengthen their playoff case. But the rigid front office looks confused as they are not sure about the flow of the current season. And if one looks at how LA started its campaign, one would pull out their faith in the team. The team has suffered many losses despite having one of the best players, LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
Russell Westbrook Still Under Trade Fire
The 34-year-old point guard has had one of the most disastrous two years in Los Angeles. The first season was such a flop that the new head coach had to change his role on the court. He did not fit among the superstar duo of LeBron and Davis, further weakening his case. In the offseason, his performance was so bad even the fans wanted him out. And looking at such scenarios, adding Irving would have been a blessing in disguise for the Laker fans. However, the next destination that Westbrook could go to is the Utah Jazz.
Utah has been one of the most irregular teams in the league. They even beat the Lakers with their shaky campaign. However, the Jazz has been going at it strong with a 27-28 record in the league, which places them in the 10th position league. And according to Tim MacMahon, LA could trade Russell Westbrook to the Jazz in exchange for Malik Beasley and Mike Conley. And reports also suggest that Utah is undergoing changes and a complete rebuild for long-term success in the league.
Although it may seem like a great funnel to get rid of Russell Westbrook, the trade may not improve the team for the playoffs. Malik is a young 26-year-old player who is doing great but will soon hit free agency the next year. Meanwhile, Conley is having one of the worst seasons and still has one more year under his contract. It looks like the Kyrie Irving trade was the last for the Lakers to have hopped on. However, two days still remain for the trade deadline to come to an end finally.
