The Los Angeles Lakers have arrived at the pitstop and still hope for a substantial trade from the market. The front office expressed their wish not to sacrifice their first-round picks to secure their upcoming future in the league. And they did not even receive a deal that would be worth trading their future picks in the market. Meanwhile, Russell Westbrook and Patrick Beverley are under pressure as they could be used for a trade. Only a few days left for the Lakers to make one last push to improve the roster significantly.
The Lakers wish to advance further in this season of the NBA, as they made a mess last year. Last year marked LA\’s failure to play in the postseason, even with the likes of LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Russ. It also became the first ever season in 20 years that LeBron did not appear for postseason basketball. However, this year has not been any different. The Lakers are sitting at the bottom of the table with their terrible roller coaster of a season. Even Akron Hammer\’s tyrannical performance is not helping Hollywood cross the winning line. It is all due to the fact that the 2020 champs have had to work with an average squad.
Russell Westbrook For Zach LaVine Is A Possibility For The Lakers
The 34-year-old point guard had a disappointing campaign when they missed the postseason last year. And ever since then, Westbrook has been on thin ice and borrowed days as fans wanted him out. However, his new role, which made him come off the bench, blew the fans as it started producing results. There was a moment when the fans started believing that Russ could win the sixth man of the year award. The nine-time All-star even broke the record to do the most triple-doubles in a season coming off the bench.
Zach LaVine currently plays for Chicago Bulls, who were a different team last year but struggling this season. And their rumors about rebuilding and speculation about the Lakers and Bulls taking a trade is an indication. Another hint would be LaVine\’s will to play for LA because he is a Klutch Sports client. Although the trade deadline might be too close, Hollywood fans must expect the unexpected. The Lakers could go for the move, as they have not made any big trades this season. And Westbrook is good, but his inability to make the most in the clutch moments has caused losses.
Meanwhile, LaVine is averaging 23.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.2 assists in 46 games until now. Another player whose rumors are making noise in the market is DeMar DeRozan. He is playing at the All-star level, and adding these two players should make the Lakers title contenders. In the meantime, DeRozan is averaging 26.3 points, 4.9 rebounds, and five assists. If LA wants to make a way into the top 10 of the Western Conference, they will need quality players on the roster.