“Putting Their Egos Aside”: Report Details Meeting Westbrook Had With LeBron and Davis Before Lakers Trade
Follow Us
In one of the best and most shocking trades in recent history, Russell Westbrook was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers on the 2021 NBA Draft Night. Westbrook left the Wizards in order to play with LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Some sources had reported the possibility of the move happening, but the sheer suddenness of it all amazed everyone. Was it a shocker for the Lakers duo as well? Apparently not.
In a sensational bid, Westbrook was traded to the yellow army, in exchange for Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Kyle Kuzma, Montrezl Harrell and their No.22 pick. In addition to the point-guard, LA received a 2024 and 2028 second round pick in the draft. The deal was met with mixed reactions from the world of basketball.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
While many welcomed the 32-year-old to his new side, some were skeptical about the move, due to Westbrook’s dip in form. Nonetheless, the Lakers now possess three world-class match winners at their disposal. If they can find the right balance, they will be the team to beat next year. In the 2020-21 season, LeBron, Davis and Westbrook averaged 25, 21.8 and 22.2 points respectively. Yet, the communication seems to have gotten going early between the trio.
WATCH THIS STORY: Recapping Through the Top-10 Picks of the 2021 NBA Draft Featuring Cade Cunningham
New Lakers trio had met at James’ house to discuss playing together
The Lakers were mightily disappointed with their recent campaign. After the way things ended for them, they will want to bounce back next year. As per a recent report, Russell Westbrook had in fact spoken to LA’s two stars before the draft. They met at LeBron James‘ house and discussed the potential of them playing on the same team. Contrary to what many people thought, this means that the deal was already talked of.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Trending
“Kissing & Hugging Too Much”: Charles Barkley Claims Michael Jordan Had No Friends, Warns Anthony Edwards of Tough Future
April 30, 2024 07:00 AM EDT
Is Giannis Antetokounmpo Playing Tonight vs Pacers? Bucks’ Injury Report Ahead of Game 6 in Indiana
May 02, 2024 11:59 AM EDT
Carmelo Anthony Catches Ex-Wife La La’s Attention While Aboard Son Kiyan’s Hype Train
April 29, 2024 12:00 PM EDT
Bucks Injury Report: Game 6 Return for Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard Looks Plausible After Miraculous Win
May 01, 2024 06:21 AM EDT
Bronny in Deep Waters as $800,000 Suffering Forces LeBron James’ Son to End College Career With Major Declining Numbers
April 27, 2024 01:45 PM EDT
Get instantly notified of the hottest NBA stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.
Follow Us
Westbrook, LeBron, and AD met at LeBron’s house about two weeks ago to discuss the possibility of playing together;
“They talked about putting their egos aside and playing as one in their quest to bring the Lakers another NBA championship.”
(via @BA_Turner) pic.twitter.com/ygF8RiDCaM
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) July 30, 2021
According to top insider source Brad Turner, “They [LeBron, Davis, Westbrook] talked about putting their egos aside and playing as one, in their quest to bring the Lakers another NBA Championship.” Meanwhile, the Lakers also selected Isaiah Jackson, but traded him to the Indiana Pacers via the Wizards.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
With Russell Westbrook now in the mix, the Los Angeles Lakers might look as formidable on paper as ever. However, a lot will depend on how the trio of attackers coordinate with one another. Do you think Westbrook’s addition the men in yellow was beneficial? How far will the Lakers go in the upcoming season? There is not long to go before we find out.