The Los Angeles Lakers are still stuck in the bottom half of the Western Conference table. Despite phenomenal individual performances from LeBron James, LA has still not made much progress in the league. Alongside the 38-year-old, Russell Westbrook has also been contributing his efforts to improve the team. Although the 34-year-old point guard does not get the respect he deserves, it does not affect his grind to help his team. Following the lack of respect, he is also dipped in never-ending trade rumors around the season.
Even before the season started, the Lakers had already decided to trade Russell Westbrook, as fans wanted him out. The Lakers signed Russ with high hopes looking at his fantastic history with OKC Thunders. However, the nine-time All-star needed help to make his place among the title winners LeBron James and Anthony Davis. The fans quickly noticed Westbrook’s indifference and wanted him out in the next season. Although Westbrook should have left until now, the point guard continues to feature in every Lakers game. The reason could be his new role in the team because of the first-time head coach Darvin Ham.
The Lakers Like Russell Westbrook’s Presence In The Team?
LA fans want some move to happen before the trade deadline, which would improve their chances for this year’s postseason. However, the front office has shown signs that they don’t believe in the Lakers team this year. Their high reluctance to spend money and sacrifice their draft picks clearly indicates they are giving up on this season. Although the fans still have hopes for Rui Hachumura, who came in place of Kendrick Nunn last week. And reports suggest Hollywood had the opportunity to trade Russell Westbrook but gave out at the last moment. It looks like their conversation with Indiana Pacers was getting severe.
The Lakers’ interest in Myles Turner and Buddy Hield has been keen since the season started. The conversation between the two franchises has been intense, but one without results. In the meantime, Turner and Hield started balling for the Pacers, which resulted in Turner’s contract extension. According to the reports, Myles signed a two-year deal with a $60 million extension. Meanwhile, Russell Westbrook also started balling in the Purple and Gold, accepting his new role. And his new style of play also helped him break some records coming off the bench.
Zach LaVine is another player who has been in constant touch with the Lakers to move to Los Angeles. Reports suggest that there is a continuous tension between Chicago Bulls and Zach. And once the issue between them resolves, Hollywood becomes LaVine’s favorite landing spot in the league. However, despite him being an All-star player, he might not be the perfect player to replace Russell Westbrook. Zach is an injury-prone athlete, and the Lakers already have one player who causes them problems.
