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REPORT: Russell Westbrook Lakers Exit Becomes Imminent As Fans Hype Much Awaited Kyrie Irving and LeBron James Reunion

Published 07/18/2022, 9:00 PM EDT

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USA Today via Reuters

Before coming into his hometown, Russell Westbrook was one of the most ferocious players on the planet. He helped the Washington Wizards make it into the postseason and develop a winning attitude. Likewise, LeBron James and the Lakers were desperate for a great point guard. And Brodie checked all the boxes.

However, when it came time to play, the dynamic just wasn’t there. Westbrook had one of his worst seasons ever and since then, the Lakers are looking to move on. Now, as time goes by, it looks like their marriage is coming close to an end.

This last season was a horror show for the Lakers franchise. Despite having all the star power in the world, they couldn’t even make the postseason. However, what’s worse was their blockbuster trade for Brodie came to bite them back. His role on the team has been a major point of concern, as Westbrook doesn’t want to accept a smaller role.

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Now, with him splitting up with his long-time agent, Thad Foucher, things are only bound to get uglier.

Despite the support shown to him by Darvin Ham, Westbrook can’t seem to come to terms with his asking role. Likewise, his relationship with the franchise is growing more hostile with time. And there is a high chance the two parties go their separate ways.

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Russell Westbrook’s time with the Lakers is over?

After last season’s poor show, the purple and gold are desperately trying to move Russ away. Their efforts haven’t gone long so far as his trade value has significantly dropped. Despite being one of the hardest players in the NBA, Westbrook’s prime is behind him.

While the Lakers had to send assets to acquire the former MVP, they weren’t going to get the same treatment in return. However, the 16 time champions may be willing to take the gamble.

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According to Jovan Buha of The Athletic, the relationship between the Lakers and Russ is heading for a split. He wrote: “The dynamic between the Lakers and Russell Westbrook is becoming more untenable with each passing week as the two sides seemingly head for an inevitable divorce.”

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For the Lakers, a roster without Russ seems to be the best option. Despite him not holding a high value in the trade market, the hype for a possible Kyrie Irving trade is surely growing up. Through the off-season, LeBron James has pushed to being KAI in LA. And with Brodie himself wanting out, the purple and gold could send in their picks to make their dream trade come true.

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The King has just one year left on his contract. Getting Kyrie in could see him stay for a longer time. After last season, it’s championship or bust for the Lakers. However, having that mentality with Russell Westbrook in the rotation seems to be almost impossible. Do you think Russ will be a Laker next season as well? Let us know your views in the comments below.

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Written by:

Anuj Talwalkar

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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.
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Edited by:

Sreeda U M