Home

NBA

“Listen…the Fanbase Will Riot”: Rumors of Potential Landing Spot for Lakers Star Russell Westbrook Leave NBA Fans in a Frenzy

Published 09/08/2022, 9:00 AM EDT

Follow Us

USA Today via Reuters

Russell Westbrook was subjected to an onslaught of criticism last season. The Los Angeles Lakers failed to utilize Brodie to his strengths, and eventually, he was thrown under the bus for the team’s shortcomings. As a result, the point guard has seen himself as the centerpiece of any trade talks in which the Lakers have engaged in.

Initial reports have linked him to teams such as the Brooklyn Nets and the Indiana Pacers. However, the Lakers have been unable to strike a deal that would enable Westbrook to find a new home. While it seems like the franchise will run it back with the nine-time All-Star, trade whispers continue to remain.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

The most recent speculations suggest that Westbrook could take his talents to Miami. Several NBA executives and scouts have identified the Miami Heat as an interesting landing spot for the former MVP.

Last season, the Miami Heat finished with the best record in the Eastern Conference. However, they were unable to replicate that form in the postseason, falling to the Boston Celtics in the conference finals.

This off-season, Westbrook wasn’t linked to a move to Miami at all. As a result, any potential deal struck in the coming weeks will certainly astound the league. Their point guard Kyle Lowry and three-point marksman Duncan Robinson may have to be involved in any trade that brings Westbrook over.

However, the Miami Heat pursuing the Los Angeles Lakers guard is highly unlikely considering he may not be a good fit in their current system. Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo are ‘rhythm’ players, meaning they need the ball in their hands to be effective. Westbrook is arguably a similar kind of player who needs the rock in his hands to be his best. Therefore, he may not blend effectively into their game plan.

Fans react to the rumor linking Russell Westbrook to Miami Heat

Russell Westbrook joined the Lakers in the last off-season. The Lakers’ front office was fascinated by the prospect of assembling a trio of Westbrook, LeBron James, and Anthony Davis.

Newest Lakers Signing’s Brutal Reality Check on LeBron James, Anthony Davis and Russell Westbrook Leaves NBA Twitter Befuddled: “They Have a Ring, You Don’t.”

However, he was not able to be his most impactful version next to James and AD. His game eventually took a major hit and everyone saw the things he’s not good at.

Trending

Get instantly notified of the hottest NBA stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.

Follow Us

The former MVP will be eyeing a redemption season and would be looking forward to hushing his naysayers. However, it is uncertain if he will do it as a member of the Lakers or as a member of some other team.

WATCH THIS STORY: Who is Luke Walton? What Did He Say About Kobe Bryant and Shaquille ONeal?

While speculations concerning his future will continue to swirl, fans flooded the internet with reactions when they learned that he may be heading to the Miami Heat. Here are some of the best reactions from NBA Twitter:

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Do you think a Westbrook-Miami matchup will work? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE :

Written by:

Ritvik Malhotra

353Articles

One take at a time

Ritvik is an NBA writer at EssentiallySports. Having completed his Bachelor's in Journalism and Mass Communication from Amity University, Ritvik has finally got his foot in the door as a professional sports writer. He previously interned at another media house where he authored over 150 soccer articles, but he is now writing about his primary obsession, basketball.
Show More>

Edited by:

Veer Badani