$97+ Million Update on “Next Home” for Russell Westbrook as LeBron James’ Lakers Make Key Decisions

Published 08/18/2022, 3:07 PM EDT

The Los Angeles Lakers are eyeing a redemption season. After their horrible showing to the fans, the purple and gold want to rise back to the top. However, they were adamant about giving up their future picks to trade Russell Westbrook. That brought major doubts about the potential future of the franchise. However, things have changed since then. Notably, LeBron James signing his extension has made Jeanie Buss open to going all-in.

Going into the final season of his contract, a huge question mark was riding over LeBron James. Being 38, the Akron Hammer is making the final push of his legendary career. And the biggest priority is adding championships to his resume. The four-time champion made his mark as a Laker in 2020, winning the 17th title for the franchise.

However, the last two seasons have gone horribly wrong. Despite going through the mud, James made a historic decision to run things back with the purple and gold.

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At first, the Lakers held back on giving up their future due to James’ uncertain extension. However, now that the deal is done, Brodie could have a new home soon.

Lakers are finally willing to go all out

After a first-round exit in 2021, the Lakers were willing to make it back to the top of the mountain. And LeBron James saw the answer in Russell Westbrook. The former MVP came into his hometown to turn things around. However, things going downhill wasn’t part of the plan. Westbrook averaged just 18.5 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 7.1 assists in his single season with the Lake show so far. A move that was meant to be the difference maker turned out to bite the Lakers.

Moreover, after Russ’ poor showing, his trade value took a major dip. Teams need additional leverage to accept a trade package around Brodie. Before, the Lakers weren’t letting go of their 2027 and 2029 picks. However, a single decision by the King has now likely changed the rules in LA. Buss and the front office will want to make the push. And Westbrook doesn’t seem to be part of the climb.

Having LeBron and Anthony Davis for another two years has given the Lakers a new lifeline. The pair have already proved their worth in their first show together. Hence, a prolific duo is ready to rock in town. Now, the willingness to give up their two picks makes a Russ trade very much possible.

The biggest name attached to this trade has been Kyrie Irving. The Brooklyn Nets star has been heavily linked with the Los Angeles Lakers. But the Nets have shown no interest in trading for their All-Star point guard. Still, there are plenty more options for the 17-time champions to explore. One opportunity resides in Indiana. An old target of the Lakers, Buddy Hield could be part of a possible Russell Westbrook trade. In addition, they also showed interest in one of the best shot blockers, Myles Turner.

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Their other options include major role players such as Patrick Beverley, Jordan Clarkson, and Bojan Bogdanovic who could be crucial difference makers in a championship-contending team.

A situation that seemed lost is slowly becoming a ray of hope for the Lakers. Their major concerns now revolve around the health of their two biggest stars, LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Now with the green light to go all in, the Lakers could create a well-constructed roster with the help of one single trade.

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Who do you think the Lakers should bring in to exchange for Russell Westbrook? Let us know your views in the comments below.

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Written by:

Anuj Talwalkar is an NBA writer at EssentiallySports. He is a student studying at NM College in Mumbai, aspiring to pursue sports management to follow his love for sports. Anuj started following the NBA last year, and he loves to combine his passion for writing with his understanding of basketball.

Edited by:

Veer Badani

$97+ Million Update on “Next Home” for Russell Westbrook as LeBron James’ Lakers Make Key Decisions

Lakers are finally willing to go all out

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